Surly Eight Ale-Six Year Later

Surly Eight Ale-Six Year Later. 12 % ABV.
Surly Brewing, Brooklyn Center, MN.

Mostly hazed, dark crimson coloring, slim white head.

In the nose: Bright, bold fruit, almost wine-like. Vanilla and cherry. Slightly sweet, lightly tart, a wonderful complexity coming through.

In the mouth: Big hoppiness. Big malt. Massive barrel action. Tart tannins. Smooth stuff, underneath the bigness. Citrus fruit, stone fruit, berries and cherries. Quite tasty.

I'm going to have to check on my notes from the original release in 2014.

Six years on, it's much more mellow, alcohol strength isn't felt quite so hotly. Flavors remain plump and delicious. Holds up remarkably well after six years. Wish I had another.


When it’s done” is a phrase we’ve used to describe release dates for our beers for many years. When you’re putting the beer first, it just makes sense. Our anniversary is technically in February, but this unique Oat Wine style ale needed to age in High West Rye Whiskey barrels until, well… until it’s done. Here’s to Eight great years, and we’ll all be celebrating soon in our all new Destination Brewery.