Curmudgeon's Better Half is a dark, robust old ale from Founders Brewing Company in Grand Rapids. Brewed with molasses and aged for 254 days in bourbon barrels previously used for maple syrup, this beer showcases the brewery's refined barrel-aging expertise.

The nose offers brown sugar, caramel and toffee with prominent bourbon and oak undertones. On the palate, rich malt sweetness dominates, complemented by vanilla, caramel and subtle maple notes, balanced by the warming 12.7% alcohol. The finish remains smooth and lingering.

Medium-thick and creamy in body with light carbonation, this is a contemplative sipper best shared and savoured slowly.