20th Anniversary Encore Series: Stone 02.02.02 Vertical Epic Ale
A rare start to an epic series
STYLE
Belgian-Style Strong Ale
ABV
7.5%
IBUs
40
AVAILABILITY
Nationwide
In 2002 we began our groundbreaking, millennium-inspired series with Stone 02.02.02 Vertical Epic Ale. This bumped-up Belgian-style wit—made all the more alluring thanks to an infusion of orange peel, coriander, a sprinkling of black pepper and a healthy dose of Centennial hops—was a bright way to begin this unprecedented eleven-part vertical tasting. Being that it was the first in a sequentially released series of beers (originally designed to be enjoyed together ten years into the future), and that only 300 cases were produced, this became quite easily the rarest and most highly sought-after beer we have ever brewed. However, nothing this coveted should be relegated to such a fate. Back for an encore, now all of those who missed out the first time can taste what was the start of something truly epic.
Sweet orange peel, Curaçao orange peel, coriander & black pepper
Flavor Profile
Citrus, honey, spice
Image
No single day can contain something as momentous as our 20th anniversary here at Stone Brewing. So we’re celebrating this milestone over the course of an entire year by releasing some fan-favorite beers from our 20-year history, using their original recipes and bottle art, and looking back on some highlights from the past on our way into a future filled with continued creativity, passion and a helluva lot of fun. Join us!
NATIONAL DISTRIBUTION
AVAILABLE
NOT AVAILABLE
AVAILABLE
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Tasting Notes
Appearance
Light golden, bright white head
Aroma
Rose, peach, bubblegum, citrus peel, and light spice
Taste
White wine, honey-dew melon, citrus, orange, and a lingering, mild-spicy finish
Palate
A nice full palate with interwoven flavors leading to some bitterness on the end
Overall
It’s a treat to taste a fresh version of this beer! Our first in the Stone Vertical Epic Ale series was very limited and became a beer much talked about even though only a few were actually lucky enough to get their hands on it. For our 20th Anniversary Year, we wanted to re-visit some of our favorite beers from our past and this immediately came to mind so we could experience it again, and have more people be able to try it! It’s great fresh yet is ultimately cellarable as we saw from the original version’s flawless performance in effortlessly passing its 10 year aging mark (from 02.02.02 to 12.12.12).
