Irrigation Ales
Irrigation Ales, proudly announces that its barrel-aged imperial porter with red wine grapes, Grape Expectations, has earned a stellar 96 rating from The Beer Connoisseur, solidifying its status as a world-class beer. This beer ranked #9 on Beer Connoisseur Magazine’s prestigious Top 100 Beers of 2024 list. Each year, hundreds of beers from North America and Europe are submitted for review. Kansas breweries enjoyed recognition in the Winter 2025, Issue 76 — with Tasty IPA by Manhattan Brewing Company also receiving a 93 rating and securing the #37 spot.
Judged in the Specialty Wood-Aged Beer category with a Baltic Porter base style, judges praised the beer for its “complex notes of tannin and oak” and “layers of chocolate, roasted malt, and peppery fruit,” an “amazing beer” that masterfully balances bold and subtle flavors. Aged to perfection in wine barrels, Grape Expectations exemplifies the brewery’s dedication to crafting unique and unforgettable flavor experiences.
The beer concept was inspired by co-owners Luke and Jennifer Mahin, alongside Luke’s father and brewing partner, Bill Mahin. A testament to local collaboration, the Mahins worked with winemaker Dave DeJoia, whose vineyard provided the Frontenac red grapes used in the brew. Freshly crushed grapes were added on harvest day, followed by six months of aging in DeJoia’s red wine oak barrels.
“We wanted to take a different approach to this style by using a barrel-aged imperial porter as the base,” said Luke Mahin. “This was our first attempt at barrel-aging, and we’re thrilled with how the beer and wine flavors unfold in layers with every sip.”
Community-Centric and Locally Sourced
The Mahin’s commitment to local ingredients is evident, with grapes and barrels sourced just five miles away and Kansas Malt Company’s two-row malt used in the grain bill. Despite its bold 10.5% ABV complexity, the beer has won over even light beer drinkers in the community.
“Our community’s support has been incredible,” said Jennifer Mahin. “It’s rewarding to see people in our small town of 294 try something new and fall in love with it.”
A World-Class Achievement
The Beer Connoisseur review highlights Grape Expectations’ exceptional balance of bold flavors and nuanced complexity, distinguishing it from other barrel-aged beers. Combining the richness of a Baltic porter with the elegance of red wine, the beer exemplifies the creativity and craftsmanship that Irrigation Ales brings to rural Kansas. As one of the smallest breweries on the list, Irrigation Ales’ recognition underscores its ability to punch above its weight on a national stage.
Experience the Beer
Craft beer enthusiasts can experience the award-winning Grape Expectations at the Irrigation Ales taproom in Courtland, KS, starting Saturday, February 8th. Limited bottles are also available for purchase.
To celebrate this achievement, Irrigation Ales will host a Grape Expectations Tapping and Tours event on Saturday, February 8th open from 12 pm to 10 pm. The event will include tours at 2:30 and 5:00 pm, exclusive tastings, behind-the-scenes stories about the brewing process, and a toast to the local farmers and supporters who made this beer possible.
About Irrigation Ales
Nestled in downtown Courtland, Kansas, Irrigation Ales offers a beautiful space for people to connect through craft beer to their rural culture. With a focus on crafting beers that celebrate local ingredients and the stories behind them, Irrigation Ales has become a destination for beer lovers near and far.
Grape Expectations – Official Beer Review – https://beerconnoisseur.com/beer/irrigation-ales/grape-expectations
