Step into a realm of elevated beer experiences with our December selection— Stairway to Intensity. This month, we've curated a collection that transcends the ordinary, featuring brews with higher ABV that promise to take your taste buds on a journey of depth and richness. From imperial stouts to bold double IPAs, each beer in this collection is a testament to the intense flavors and craftsmanship that define the pinnacle of brewing. Join us on this flavorful ascent as we explore the heights of intensity in every sip.
Siren Craft Brew ~ Death by CCC 10.0% Imperial Tropical Stout w/ Cacao, Cypress & Amburana 330ml: Prepare for a decadent dance on the palate with Death by CCC, a tropical stout that elevates the concept of indulgence. Loaded with cacao nibs, Cypress wood, and the distinctive Amburana, this imperial marvel pushes the boundaries of depth and complexity. The spicy, fragrant spirals of Amburana weave through, akin to the intricate notes of tonka beans, while a hint of vanilla perfectly complements the spiciness. Its imperial strength and higher finishing gravity in 2023 contribute to an unprecedented body and mouthfeel, creating an immersive chocolate cake experience that transcends the ordinary.
Beer and Food Pairing Suggestions: Pair Death by CCC with a rich chocolate mousse to amplify its cacao character, or go adventurous with a spicy mole enchilada to dance with the Amburana's exotic notes. The stout's elevated body can stand up to creamy blue cheeses, creating a sensory symphony. Embrace the complexity by contrasting it with a simple vanilla bean panna cotta for a dessert pairing that mirrors the beer's intricate flavor profile.
Yonder ~ Dark Choc Ginger Biscuit 7.0% Stem Ginger & Dark Chocolate Candy Stout 440ml: Yonder's Dark Choc Ginger Biscuit stout unfolds a festive celebration with fiery ginger and decadent dark chocolate. This pastry stout, inspired by posh biscuits, embraces the holiday spirit with a Lebkuchen-inspired richness. The amalgamation of stem ginger and festive spices infuses depth, creating a velvety, biscuity experience that dances on the tongue.
Beer and Food Pairing Suggestions: For a delightful contrast, pair Dark Choc Ginger Biscuit with a creamy blue cheese, letting the ginger cut through the richness. Elevate the festive vibe with gingerbread cookies or Lebkuchen for a harmonious match. The stout's dark chocolate notes open the door to explore pairing with a flourless chocolate cake or a chocolate-dipped candied orange peel, creating a decadent symphony of flavors.
Yonder ~ Espresso Martini Truffles 8.4% Coffee & Dark Chocolate Candy Stout 440ml: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a Christmas party with Yonder's Espresso Martini Truffle. This pastry stout combines the best of both worlds—coffee and dark chocolate. The sweet, thick body is complemented by a lively kick of coffee and a touch of boozy warmth, making it a perfect festive indulgence.
Beer and Food Pairing Suggestions: Pair Espresso Martini Truffles with a rich tiramisu to echo the coffee notes or delve into the synergy of flavors with a chocolate-covered espresso bean. For a playful twist, consider pairing it with a scoop of coffee-flavored gelato, creating a delightful contrast between the cold creaminess and the stout's warming depth.
Two Flints ~ Big Bella 8.0% Double IPA 440ml: Big Bella from Two Flints is a symphony of hop aromas, showcasing the brilliance of Nelson Sauvin and Motueka hops. This double IPA boasts huge grape, strawberry, and gooseberry aromas, supported by a soft, fluffy texture. The innovative use of hop products adds layers of complexity, making it a hop lover's dream.
Beer and Food Pairing Suggestions: Pair Big Bella with spicy Thai dishes to accentuate the hoppy flavors or contrast it with a creamy blue cheese for a delightful clash of intensities. The fruity character opens up possibilities for pairing with tropical fruit salads or mango salsa, creating a refreshing balance against the beer's hop-forward profile.
New Bristol Brewery x Unbarred ~ Chocolate Orange Stout 7.0% Chocolate Orange Stout 440ml: Collaboration brings forth a decadent delight in the form of Chocolate Orange Stout. Crafted by New Bristol Brewery and Unbarred Brewery, this rich, silky stout harmoniously blends two beloved flavors—chocolate and orange. The result is a sumptuous beer that embodies the essence of a classic sweet treat.
Beer and Food Pairing Suggestions: Indulge in the luxurious combination of Chocolate Orange Stout with a velvety chocolate mousse or a dense chocolate fondant. For a contrast in textures, pair it with candied orange peel or a zesty orange-infused cheesecake. The interplay of sweet and citrusy notes will elevate both the beer and the dessert.
Staggeringly Good ~ Spared No Expense V5 8.0% Double New England IPA 440ml: Experience opulence in hoppy madness with Spared No Expense V5, a Double New England IPA that lives up to its name. Bursting with a lavish dry hop addition of Nelson Sauvin, Citra, and Galaxy, this DIPA promises a cascade of fresh, fruity flavors. It's an investment in freshness that pays off with every sip.
Beer and Food Pairing Suggestions: Pair Spared No Expense V5 with spicy grilled shrimp for a delightful contrast or indulge in the richness of a creamy lobster bisque. The beer's tropical hop profile also complements grilled pineapple skewers or a tropical fruit salad, creating a vibrant and harmonious pairing.
Howling Hops ~ Listen You Screwheads 7.4% Tequila Barrel Aged Margarita Sour 440ml: Enter the realm of eccentricity with Listen You Screwheads, a Tequila Barrel Aged Margarita Sour by Howling Hops in collaboration with Mammoth Beer. This unique creation blends strong fruit sour notes with the distinctive influence of tequila barrels, resulting in a concoction that's undeniably screwy and utterly intriguing.
Beer and Food Pairing Suggestions: Pair Listen You Screwheads with spicy Mexican street corn for a playful fusion of flavors or contrast its tangy notes with creamy guacamole. For a daring pairing, try it with ceviche to enhance the beer's citrusy and tart profile, creating a memorable taste experience.
Full Circle ~ Dooper 8.7% Double IPA 440ml: Celebrating their third birthday, Full Circle presents Dooper, an amped-up version of their flagship beer Looper. This Double IPA, at 8.7%, balances a soft and juicy texture with zesty sweet lemon and lime notes. Despite the higher ABV, it remains remarkably drinkable, showcasing a careful interplay of bitterness and citrusy finish.
Beer and Food Pairing Suggestions: Pair Dooper with a spicy mango salsa to complement its citrusy notes or explore the contrast with a creamy lemon tart. The beer's hop-forward character makes it an excellent companion for bold, flavorful cheeses, enhancing the overall tasting experience.