Modern Loyal Subjects + Vanilla

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

The nose opens with profound bourbon-soaked vanilla custard, layered with toffee, dark dried fruits, and subtle oxidative sherry notes characteristic of well-aged English barleywine. On the palate, viscous caramel and vanilla bean intermingle with toasted oak, brown sugar, and hints of dark chocolate, while restrained hop bitterness provides structural backbone. The alcohol warmth is present yet integrated, never aggressive. The finish extends gracefully with lingering vanilla, caramelized sugars, and a gentle woody astringency that invites contemplation, showcasing remarkable depth for an already complex base barleywine elevated by thoughtful barrel treatment.

Food Pairing

Pair with aged English Stilton or cave-aged cheddar, where the beer’s sweetness counterpoints salty umami depth while vanilla notes complement nutty cheese complexity. Alternatively, serve alongside dark chocolate torte with salted caramel, creating a harmonious progression of roasted, sweet, and vanilla flavors that amplify both dessert and beer.

About Modern Times Beer

Modern Times Beer was founded in 2013 in San Diego, California, establishing itself as a distinctive voice in American craft brewing. The brewery built its reputation on a progressive philosophy that intertwines quality beer production with worker ownership and environmental consciousness, having transitioned to an employee-owned cooperative model. Modern Times became particularly renowned for their hop-forward West Coast IPAs and an exceptional portfolio of coffee-infused stouts, reflecting San Diego’s vibrant craft beer culture while pushing creative boundaries. Their brewing approach balances technical precision with experimental fermentation, producing both classic styles and innovative interpretations that garnered a devoted following. The brewery expanded beyond its original Point Loma location to include additional facilities and tasting rooms, though it faced significant challenges in recent years. Known for their distinctive retro-futuristic branding and literary references, Modern Times cultivated a unique identity in the crowded craft beer landscape. Their commitment to quality ingredients and creative recipe development, particularly in darker beer styles and hop-forward offerings, established them as an influential producer in the American craft beer movement.