Food & Spirits: Beer isn’t generally consumed with the same thought and care as a fine spirit, but Sam Adams Utopias limited edition change the entire concept of a beer drinker from redneck to blue blood.

Sam Adams Utopias, “the strongest beer in the world” has an alcohol by volume level around 27% (making them unavailable in some states). Often compared to brandy, sherry, cognac or port, Utopias are said to have a "distinctive smell of cinnamon and vanilla with subtle hints of floral, citrus and pine." Made using caramel, Vienna, Moravian and Bavarian smoked malts, and all four varieties of noble hops: Hallertauer Mittelfrüh, Tettnanger, Spalter, and Saaz hops, each batch of Utopia is aged in scotch, cognac and port barrels for the better part of a year.

Begun in 2002, Utopias are released around the holiday season and often have a waiting list for connoisseurs waiting to try them. To fully appreciate the exclusive flavor, Utopias are designed to be enjoyed in a special glass designed for Sam Adams with Utopias flavor profile in mind.

The most recent batch was released in November of last year, with a retail price of $150 a bottle and with a supposed shelf life of up to 40 years, it kind of makes you want to save popping the top for a special occasion.