When the doors of Deschutes opened for a chance to score a bottle of Collage, people were lined up at the ready. The first brew of the anticipated Deschutes Brewery and Hair of the Dog collaboration, the Conflux Series, is now available in limited quantities.

While many other breweries prepped pilsners for summer releases, Deschutes and Hair of the Dog were aging up this “alchemy.”  Barrel-aged beers are back in a big way, and it’s aging process that gives Collage that extra boozy kick. 

Collage (11.6% ABV) is a mashup of Deschutes The Dissident (sour) and The Stoic (Belgian-style quad) and Hair of the Dog Fred (golden strong ale) and Adam (old ale), but the flavor is not complex as one might expect. The first taste is aggressive and somewhat sour with an acidic, cherry, and woody nose.  Sherry and bourbon notes are present throughout, with a slightly hoppy finish.  This medium-bodied beer has a higher carbonation than most, creating the impression of a much lighter beer.

If you can get your hands on Collage, you’ll find it a beer that grows on you quickly, and not just because of the high ABV. By the time you finish the 12-oz. bottle, you will be aching for another try.