Deschutes Mirror Jubel 22

Overview
Deschutes Mirror Jubel 22 is a limited-release barleywine-style strong ale from Deschutes Brewery's Reserve Series, showcasing the brewery's expertise in barrel aging to infuse deep malt complexity with bourbon barrel character.

Specs at a glance

Good to know
Deschutes Brewery, founded in 1988, draws on its Mirror Pond pale ale legacy and Jubelale winter warmer for this hybrid expression. Mirror Jubel 22 undergoes extended maturation in ex-bourbon oak barrels, transforming its robust malt base into a whiskey-barrel-infused sipper. This edition emphasizes the brewery's push into high-ABV, age-worthy beers for collectors.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Pronounced caramel toffee, dark cherries, and figs mingle with vanilla oak and subtle bourbon char.
• Palate: Dense waves of molasses sweetness, stewed plums, and raisin bread unfold alongside toasted nuts, cinnamon spice, and a creamy bourbon barrel influence that builds viscosity. Moderate bitterness tempers the richness without overpowering.
• Finish: Lingering warmth from high proof carries baked apple, leather, and fading barrel tannins for a medium-plus duration.

Notable details

• Production: Fermented as a barleywine then aged 12+ months in #3 or #4 char bourbon barrels; unfiltered and bottle-conditioned.
• Lineage: Part of Deschutes' barrel-aged Reserve Series, evolving from their iconic Jubelale tradition.
• Comparison: Evokes the viscous depth of Firestone Walker Helldorado but with Deschutes' cleaner malt profile and fresher oak.
• Availability: Highly allocated annual release; ages gracefully for 5+ years in the cellar.

Serving suggestions
Serve neat or lightly chilled in a tulip glass to concentrate aromas. A few drops of water opens the malt further. Pairs with blue cheese, chocolate pecan pie, or smoked meats.

A contemplative sipper bridging beer and bourbon worlds, ideal for those who savor barrel-aged intensity.