Baladin Xyauyù Fumè Riserva 2018 | Italian Smoked Barleywine

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

Poured from its distinctive wax-sealed, corked 500ml bottle, the Baladin Xyauyù Fumè Riserva 2018 presents as a deep, dark amber with copper-russet hues and an almost syrupy, still surface — zero carbonation and no head to speak of, much like a fine fortified wine. On the nose, intense peat smoke leads the way, interwoven with ripe cherry, dried pear, and strawberry, along with a soft tartness that hints at controlled oxidation. Caramel and dried fig round out the aromatic profile beautifully. On the palate, the mouthfeel is full-bodied and lusciously viscous — close to syrupy — with no carbonation whatsoever, inviting slow, contemplative sipping.

Sweetness is generous but not cloying, underpinned by dark dried fruits including raisin and prune, toffee, and a subtle earthiness. The peat smoke from the Islay whisky barrel integration is present and purposeful without dominating. The finish is long, warming, and gently smoky, with a woody, barrel-driven dryness that balances the residual sweetness. This is a beer built for cellaring and introspection — a masterwork from Birra Baladin’s legendary Xyauyù series. Explore full community ratings on Untappd.

Food Pairing

The Baladin Xyauyù Fumè Riserva 2018 pairs magnificently with aged Parmigiano Reggiano and a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar — the salt and umami of the cheese echo the beer’s oxidative depth. Equally revelatory alongside a rich dark chocolate fondant with smoked caramel, where the Islay whisky barrel character bridges cocoa bitterness and the barleywine’s lush sweetness.

Baladin Xyauyù Fumè Riserva (2018)