Whisky Barrel Aged Imperial Stout (2021)

Hawkers Vintage beers are our annual collection of bold, limited-release brews created to showcase the very best of what we do. From barrel-aged stouts and barleywines to other specialty styles, these beers are brewed with complexity in mind and many are suitable for cellaring.

Yes. Many Hawkers Vintage beers are brewed specifically to evolve with time. While they're ready to enjoy upon release, cellaring can allow flavours to soften, integrate and develop additional complexity over the years.

ere's no single right answer. Some beers are fantastic fresh, while others continue to evolve over several years. Cellaring is part of the fun - opening a bottle every year or two lets you experience how the beer changes over time.

Generally, higher-strength beers such as Imperial Stouts, Barleywines, barrel-aged beers and other Vintage releases are the best candidates for ageing. Their rich malt character and higher ABV allow them to develop beautifully over time.

Absolutely. As a beer ages, hop intensity tends to mellow while malt-driven flavours become more pronounced. You may notice richer notes of caramel, toffee, dried fruit, chocolate, oak or sherry-like complexity emerging, depending on the style and how long it's been cellared.