There’s a time and a place for big, boozy, barrel-aged brews. For locals in California’s Bay Area the time is — well, anytime — and the place is Drake’s Brewing.

Drake’s built their reputation as raucous party-starters with their award-winning, high-gravity brews. For craft fans into top-shelf cocktails or slow-sipping beers, these GABF multi-medalists are a must-try.

Luckily, Headzo IV (2020) makes a wonderful introduction to these BIG ABV brewers from the Bay!

Drake’s aged this behemoth for 2 whole years in Kentucky Bourbon AND Port Barrels. As soon as the burnt copper-hued pour reaches your lips, a symphony of toffee, caramel, butterscotch, and whiskey-soaked plums enrobes the palate with a warming crescendo.

They call Headzo a Strong Ale because, what else would you call a boozy 18.5% ABV kaleidoscope like this?

Though, you could call it your “segue into darkness,” because next up from these booze lords is The Void.

Drake’s crafted this 17.5% ABV Stout for the sole purpose of enveloping its drinker in decadent, dark depths. Aging in Rye Whiskey Barrels for 16 months imbued this 2019 Vintage with endless layers of bourbon caramel, silky vanilla, and the spice of toasted oak. Meanwhile, additions of Belgian Candi Sugar ensure satisfying surges of dark fruit sweetness.

In a world burdened with the banality of the ordinary, Drake’s Brewing is the mastermind provocateur we’ve all needed. Savor these brews like you would a top-shelf cognac — slowly. Then, raise a toast to the method behind the madness.

With Tavour, it's easy to beer it forward! Just head over to Tavour.com/gifts to send a gift box or gift card to the craft beer lover in your life. Cheers!

Tavour strictly supports independent beer. Drake's Brewing Company is certified independent by the Brewers Association