Lervig — Paragon 2022

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

The nose opens with profound bourbon-soaked oak and dark toffee, layered with dried fig, dates, and caramelized brown sugar. Gentle vanilla and warming alcohol integrate seamlessly. On the palate, this barleywine delivers syrupy richness balanced by subtle oxidative notes—think aged sherry and toasted hazelnuts. Waves of dark fruit compote, butterscotch, and molasses unfold with remarkable depth. The finish extends gracefully, leaving lingering impressions of oak tannins, burnt sugar, and a pleasant warming sensation that speaks to its 18-month maturation and formidable strength.

Food Pairing

Pair with aged Comté or Gruyère d’Alpage, where the cheese’s crystalline texture and nutty complexity mirror the beer’s oxidative character and caramel depths. Alternatively, serve alongside a dark chocolate torte with salted caramel—the bittersweet cocoa and toffee elements create harmonious resonance with the barleywine’s layered malt profile and bourbon-barrel influence.

About Lervig Aktiebryggeri

Lervig Aktiebryggeri was founded in 2003 in Stavanger, Norway, initially continuing the legacy of Tou beer production with traditional pilsner styles. The brewery underwent a transformative shift in 2010 with the appointment of American head brewer Mike Murphy, pivoting decisively towards craft beer innovation. This strategic change established Lervig as a pioneering force in the Nordic craft beer movement, particularly renowned for their bold imperial stouts and hazy New England IPAs that have captivated enthusiasts across Europe and beyond.

The brewery’s commitment to quality and freshness is evident in their specialized cold-chain distribution partnership, ensuring their hop-forward beers reach consumers in optimal condition. Lervig’s reputation extends well beyond Norway’s borders through prolific collaborations with acclaimed international breweries including Mikkeller, To Øl, Põhjala, Evil Twin, and Beavertown, cementing their status within the global craft beer community. Their dedication to pushing stylistic boundaries earned them recognition on RateBeer’s prestigious Top 100 Brewers in the World list in 2014, confirming Lervig’s position among the elite producers shaping contemporary beer culture.

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