The Bruery Adding The Vesper Bell & Midnight Autumn Monster

Today I have another exciting pair of 2026 barrel‑aged beer releases coming from The Bruery in Placentia, California, and both of these new offerings lean heavily into the rich, decadent, high‑gravity territory that fans of The Bruery know and love. As the brewery continues expanding its lineup of barrel‑aged strong ales, these two new bottles: The Vesper Bell and Midnight Autumn Monster, are already shaping up to be standout entries in the 2026 release calendar.

The Vesper Bell — Barrel‑Aged Belgian‑Style Dark Strong Ale (12.1% ABV)

First up is The Vesper Bell, a barrel‑aged Belgian‑style dark strong ale that will clock in at 12.1% ABV. Built on the classic Belgian dark strong ale profile, deep malt richness, dark fruit character, subtle spice, and warming complexity, The Vesper Bell is then elevated through extended aging in oak barrels, adding layers of vanilla, caramelized sugar, toasted oak, and spirit‑driven depth. Fans of The Bruery’s Belgian‑inspired offerings will immediately recognize the signature house character: expressive yeast, layered sweetness, and a long, warming finish.

Label Text: “Answer the call of indulgence with The Vesper Bell. Bourbon barrels nurture aromas of figs, toffee, and vanilla that flirt with your senses, while notes of candi sugar, toasted bread, and fig jam dance on a full-bodied, decadent palate. Deep brown, nearly black, it’s a spellbinding companion to Carbonnade Flamande or chocolate Basque cheesecake. Let the bells toll for pleasure.”

Midnight Autumn Monster — Blended Barrel‑Aged Ale with Sweet Potatoes, Maple Syrup, Vanilla & Spices (11.3% ABV)

Joining it is Midnight Autumn Monster, a blended barrel‑aged ale brewed with sweet potatoes, maple syrup, vanilla, and seasonal spices, landing at 11.3% ABV. This one leans fully into autumnal, dessert‑inspired territory: think roasted sweet potato richness, maple‑driven sweetness, warm baking spices, and silky vanilla all wrapped into a deep, spirit‑kissed barrel‑aged base. It’s the kind of fall‑themed release The Bruery excels at: bold, complex, pastry‑leaning, and unmistakably crafted for cooler-weather sipping.

Label Text: “Fall has a dark, delicious secret. Bourbon barrels weave vanilla, maple syrup, and fudge brownie aromas into a full-bodied, cozy brew. Notes of candied yams, maple toffee, and vanilla cake tantalize your taste buds as black as a crisp autumn night. Best enjoyed with chicken and waffles crowned in candied bacon.”

Both The Vesper Bell and Midnight Autumn Monster will be packaged in 12.7‑oz bottles, continuing The Bruery’s signature format for its specialty and barrel‑aged releases. These bottles are poised to become highly sought‑after additions for collectors, traders, and fans of barrel‑aged Belgian ales, autumn‑themed strong ales, and high‑ABV seasonal releases.

Stay tuned for full release details, tasting notes, distribution info, and additional updates as The Bruery continues rolling out its 2026 lineup. With these two new offerings, the brewery once again reinforces its reputation as one of the premier producers of barrel‑aged craft beer in the United States.