Community Beer Co. Brewmaster Jamie Fulton Talks Barrel-Aged Legion

We spoke with Community Beer Co.'s brewmaster Jamie Fulton about Barrel-Aged Legion.

BC: Who came up with this beer’s recipe?
I did.

BC: What’s your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, etc.)?
We vary which barrels we use with the base beer, and this 2015 batch was Kentucky bourbon, which is my favorite. I love the vanilla and coconut flavors from the relatively young oak and how they play with the chocolate/coffee notes of the beer.

BC: Where does this beer’s name come from?
The word legion has a lot of symbolism: strong, many, mighty, demonic, from the Roman military to the horde of demons Jesus exorcised in the New Testament. Very fitting for this strong, dark, complex beer.

BC: Is this your “desert island beer?”
Legion would be a good choice for sheer calorie count if stranded on an island, plus your worries would fade away pretty quickly with the high ABV. It also pairs well with coconut. But no, I would definitely say our Texas Lager is my deserted island choice, it would be hydrating enough to be a sustainable choice!

BC: Can you describe this beer in 10 words or less?
Velvety smooth, rich and roasty, chocolate, vanilla, boozy, yum.

BC: Do you know a story – or have a personal story – that revolves around this beer?
Every year we switch up the barrels that this beer is aged in. From Colorado whiskey to Kentucky Bourbon, to Scotch and Rum. We've done quite a few reiterations. Every year we have a huge release party in our taproom where we tap several different vintages. It's an absolute blast, drawing hundreds of people, and it's really interesting to see how each year's beer matures!

BC: What's a good food pairing for this beer?
Legit vanilla bean ice cream. S’mores. Sea salt caramel ice cream.    

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