$24.99 per 25.4-ounce bottle
In just its second year of release, Odell’s Woodcut has become the holy grail of Colorado beers — a tall order, given the state’s lofty brewing reputation. Each bottle is corked with a champagne-style cage, hand-numbered and -dated and signed by the brewer. It’s a special-occasion brew with a price to match, and this year’s version tops even last year’s stellar No. 1. Hazy and golden with a dense white head, its appearance augurs the rich experience to follow. Woodcut’s aroma is sweet and malty, with strong notes of vanilla and oak (it’s aged in virgin oak, rather than the post-whiskey barrels often used to give some beers a twist). This is a big, full beer that feels substantial in the mouth, its sweetness and strength (11 percent alcohol by volume) lending it great appeal as an after-dinner drink that also would go well with a good cigar. Pop a cork on one of these to seal a business deal or simply to toast good friends. Odell Brewing Co., Fort Collins;
Marcus Chamberland; mchamberland@denverpost.com
