Boulevard Bourbon Barrel Quad Review

Rating: 4.7/5

If you’re a fan of big, bold, boozy beers, Boulevard Bourbon Barrel Quad (BBQ) is one you’ll definitely want to add to your list. This beer is a classic Belgian-style quadrupel aged in bourbon barrels, which takes an already rich and complex style and cranks it up a notch. It’s packed with flavor—think caramel, dark fruit, and, of course, bourbon—but it still manages to be smooth and drinkable, especially if you like your beers on the sweeter, stronger side. That said, BBQ isn’t for the faint of heart, and its high ABV might be a bit much for some.

First Impressions

When you pour this beauty into a glass, the deep mahogany color and thick tan head immediately let you know you’re in for something special. The beer has a nice clarity with a bit of a ruby glow when the light hits it. It looks heavy and rich, which fits the bill perfectly for a bourbon barrel-aged beer. The aroma is equally enticing, with a swirl of sweet malt, bourbon, vanilla, and dark fruit (like figs or raisins) wafting up from the glass. It’s the kind of beer that makes you want to take your time and savor it.

Aroma

The aroma is exactly what you’d expect from a bourbon barrel-aged quad. There’s a strong presence of bourbon and vanilla right off the top, followed by dark fruits like cherries, plums, and raisins. Underneath that, you get hints of caramel and toffee, with a slight oakiness from the barrel aging. It’s rich, complex, and inviting—almost like dessert in a glass.

Taste

Taking your first sip, you’re hit with a rush of flavors that come together beautifully. The bourbon flavor is upfront but well-balanced by the sweetness of the malt, which gives off notes of caramel, brown sugar, and molasses. Dark fruit flavors like figs, raisins, and dates follow through, adding depth and complexity to the beer. You also get a touch of vanilla and oak from the barrel, which rounds out the edges nicely.

The sweetness is there, but it’s not overwhelming. The alcohol warmth is definitely present (this beer comes in at a hefty 12.2% ABV), but it’s smooth and not overly hot. The finish is long and warming, with just a slight bitterness to keep it from being cloying.

Negatives?
The sweetness might be a bit much for some people. While it’s well-balanced for a beer of this style, if you’re not into sweeter, malt-heavy beers, BBQ could feel a little too syrupy. Also, the bourbon character is strong, so if you’re not a fan of bourbon flavors, this might not be your favorite beer. The high ABV means this is definitely a sipper—you probably won’t be knocking back more than one in a sitting, which could be a downside if you’re looking for something more sessionable.

Mouthfeel and Finish

The mouthfeel is smooth and full-bodied, with a slightly sticky texture that clings to your palate in a pleasant way. It’s rich and warming, perfect for sipping on a cold evening or after dinner. The carbonation is moderate, just enough to keep things lively without distracting from the bold flavors. The finish is long, sweet, and warming, leaving behind lingering notes of bourbon, vanilla, and dark fruit.

Positives

• Big, Complex Flavor: The combination of bourbon, dark fruit, caramel, and vanilla creates a beautifully rich and layered drinking experience.
• Smooth Despite High ABV: For a beer that clocks in at 12.2%, it’s surprisingly smooth and easy to sip. You’ll definitely feel the warmth, but it’s not overpowering or harsh.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This is a beer you bring out when you want to impress. It’s great for sipping slowly and savoring, making it ideal for cold nights or as a dessert beer.

Negatives

• A Bit Sweet for Some: If you’re not into sweet, malt-forward beers, BBQ might feel too syrupy. The bourbon and caramel notes are strong, so it’s not the beer for someone looking for a more balanced, hop-forward profile.
• Not an Everyday Beer: This is a big, bold sipper, and the high ABV makes it a one-and-done type of beer. It’s not something you’d casually drink with a meal or on a hot day.

Final Thoughts

Boulevard’s Bourbon Barrel Quad is a beer that really knows what it wants to be—big, bold, and packed with flavor. If you’re a fan of bourbon barrel-aged beers or rich, malty quads, this beer is an absolute treat. It’s the perfect sipper for a special occasion or when you’re in the mood to indulge a little. The balance of sweetness, bourbon, and dark fruit is well-executed, and while it’s definitely a strong beer, the alcohol is integrated smoothly.

That said, if you prefer lighter or more balanced beers, this one might be a bit too sweet and boozy for your taste. But for those who enjoy a decadent, complex brew, this one is hard to beat.

If you’ve tried a Bourbon Barrel Quad, please let us know what you thought about it in the comments section below.