Ola Dubh 30, Alva, Scotland

PINT OF THE WEEK: Ola Dubh 30, Alva, Scotland BIG BUZZ: In beer circles, few brews are generating more excitement than this old ale aged in 30-year-old Highland Park whiskey barrels. This is not mere hype. Ola Dubh – the term means “black oil” – is a complex, silky and satisfying beer, worth seeking out. However, given the number of excellent barrel-aged beers on the market, this worthy drink isn't worth the inflated prices it commands. BIG PRICES: At Hamilton's Tavern in South Park, Ola Dubh 30 runs $22 for a 12-ounce pour. In North Park, Toronado San Diego charges $18 for 13 ounces of this beer – a relative bargain, but still more than a buck a gulp. BIG NOSE: If someone else is buying, Ola Dubh 30 is an unalloyed pleasure, starting with its intense aroma. This is an enticing blend of toasted malts, peat, vanilla and... [read full story]