Indulge in Craft: A Tasting Journey through Unique Stouts and Porters
As the seasons shift, there's something undeniably comforting about a rich stout or porter. These styles invite you to savour their complex flavours and creamy textures, making them perfect for cozy evenings or spirited gatherings. Let's explore some exceptional offerings that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.
Blue Monkey ~ Guerrilla Nitro Stout 4.9% Nitro Stout
The Guerrilla Nitro Stout presents itself as a hearty, pitch-black delight that captivates from the first pour. With its nitrogen infusion, this stout boasts a smooth, creamy head that enhances its complex flavours and aromas. As you take your first sip, expect a rich tapestry of roasted malt, chocolate, and subtle coffee notes that meld seamlessly together. The mouthfeel is remarkably silky, thanks to the nitrogenation, making each gulp incredibly refreshing and satisfying.
Interesting Fact: The nitro infusion in this stout not only enhances the texture but also alters the beer’s aroma. Nitrogen bubbles are smaller than those of carbon dioxide, allowing the beer to develop a different flavour profile, emphasizing smoother and creamier elements. To get the full effect, be sure to pour hard right after opening the can, allowing the nitro to work its magic.
Pairing Suggestions: This stout pairs wonderfully with rich desserts, making it a fantastic choice alongside a decadent chocolate cake or a creamy tiramisu. For a savoury option, consider pairing it with a hearty beef stew or a rich cheese platter. The roasted malt flavours will enhance the depth of flavours in your meal, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
Wilde Child ~ Rik Van Nutter 4.9% Hazelnut Porter
Rik Van Nutter is a playful nod to indulgence, brewed by a group of passionate 'nutters.' This hazelnut porter brings together seven different malts, resulting in a medium-bodied brew that's sweet and utterly satisfying. Each sip reveals layers of rich chocolate, roasted nuts, and a hint of caramel. The addition of lactose lends a smooth creaminess, making it incredibly drinkable, perfect for those colder months when comfort is key.
Interesting Fact: The use of hazelnut flavouring in this porter highlights the beer's dedication to creating a nostalgic experience reminiscent of popular dessert flavours. Hazelnuts are not just delicious; they’re also rich in vitamins and minerals, making this indulgence just a little bit more rewarding.
Pairing Suggestions: This porter is a delightful companion to various desserts. Try pairing it with a hazelnut tart or a slice of chocolate hazelnut cake to amplify the nutty flavours. Alternatively, it can also complement a cheese board featuring creamy brie or aged gouda, enhancing the richness of both the beer and the cheese.
Marble ~ Major Leagues 5.1% American Brown Ale
Major Leagues is an American Brown Ale that stands out with its deep, nutty aroma and robust flavour profile. Brewed with a blend of malts, this beer showcases notes of caramel, chocolate, and roasted malt, balanced by the zesty citrus of Centennial hops and the earthy spice of Akoya. Each sip is a well-rounded experience, making it a perfect beer for those who enjoy complexity in their brews.
Interesting Fact: The American Brown Ale style originated as a nod to traditional English Brown Ales but was adapted in the U.S. to include more hop character, making them more vibrant and aromatic. The use of American hops in this brew highlights the evolution of this style, resulting in a beer that is both familiar and exciting.
Pairing Suggestions: The malty sweetness of Major Leagues pairs well with a variety of dishes. Enjoy it with grilled meats, where the caramel notes can complement the charred flavours. For a more casual pairing, consider a hearty burger topped with blue cheese or a rich chocolate brownie to echo the beer's chocolatey undertones.
Howling Hops ~ Life Coach 4.4% London Stout
Life Coach is a London Stout that embodies the essence of a traditional stout with a contemporary twist. This brew greets you with a rich, roasted malt aroma, followed by a delightful dark chocolate bitterness that lingers on the palate. The creamy texture provided by nitro adds a layer of indulgence, making this stout not just a drink but an experience.
Interesting Fact: This stout is designed to reflect the philosophy of personal development—encouraging drinkers to embrace their journey while savouring something delightful. Its smoothness and rich flavours serve as a reminder that enjoying life is an art in itself.
Pairing Suggestions: Life Coach pairs beautifully with hearty fare. Consider enjoying it with a shepherd’s pie or a rich beef chili, where the stout’s deep flavours can enhance the meal’s savoury profile. For dessert, a slice of dark chocolate cake will echo the beer’s chocolate notes, providing a satisfying end to your meal.
Northern Monk ~ Cuppa 4.8% Tea Brown Ale
Cuppa is a delightful Brown Ale infused with the essence of Yorkshire tea, bringing a comforting and familiar flavour to the table. Brewed with Cascade hops and a touch of lactose, this ale offers a unique blend of tea and biscuit flavours. The aroma is a warm embrace, reminiscent of a cozy afternoon with a freshly brewed cup of tea. On the palate, it presents smooth malt sweetness, with subtle hints of biscuit and a balanced hop finish.
Interesting Fact: This beer celebrates the British tradition of tea drinking, with tea being one of the most popular beverages in the UK. The combination of malt and tea flavours in this brown ale reflects the comforting nature of a good cup of tea, making it a true testament to British brewing culture.
Pairing Suggestions: Cuppa is a versatile beer that pairs well with both savoury and sweet dishes. Enjoy it with a classic ploughman’s lunch featuring crusty bread, cheese, and pickles. Alternatively, it goes wonderfully with dessert; consider pairing it with scones topped with clotted cream and jam to echo its tea-inspired notes.
Abbeydale ~ Twilight Pilgrim 5.0% Pumpkin Spiced Latte
Twilight Pilgrim takes inspiration from the cozy flavours of a pumpkin spice latte, making it an ideal companion for autumn evenings. This stout offers a rich and warming experience, where notes of pumpkin and warming spices meld seamlessly with dark, robust coffee flavours. The creamy finish rounds out the experience, making each sip feel like a warm hug.
Interesting Fact: The use of pumpkin in brewing dates back to the colonial era, where it was often used as a substitute for malt. This modern take on a classic pumpkin ale showcases the adaptability of brewers to create seasonal flavours while paying homage to brewing traditions.
Pairing Suggestions: Twilight Pilgrim pairs exceptionally well with autumn-inspired dishes. Enjoy it alongside a spiced butternut squash soup or a rich pumpkin risotto, where the flavours of the beer can enhance the meal’s warmth. For dessert, consider pairing it with a slice of pumpkin pie topped with whipped cream to accentuate its pumpkin spice character.
Yonder ~ Scoopy Doo: Apple Pie 5.0% Pastry Stout
Scoopy Doo: Apple Pie is a decadent pastry stout that captures the essence of a homemade apple pie. Infused with warm apple flavours and a hint of cinnamon, this stout offers a sweet and creamy experience. The aroma is reminiscent of freshly baked pie, inviting you to indulge. The combination of flavours creates a comforting drink that satisfies both sweet and savoury cravings.
Interesting Fact: This pastry stout is a celebration of nostalgia, evoking childhood memories of baking with family. The use of real fruit and spices in brewing enhances the authenticity of the flavours, making it a standout in the pastry stout category.
Pairing Suggestions: The rich flavours of Scoopy Doo are best enjoyed alongside desserts that complement its apple and spice notes. Pair it with a warm apple crumble served with vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience. For a savoury option, consider pairing it with a charcuterie board featuring soft cheeses and spiced nuts, where the beer can enhance the flavours of the board.
Pressure Drop ~ Spinneret 4.6% Stout
Spinneret is a beautifully balanced stout that invites you to explore its roasty character. Brewed with five specialty malts, it delivers layers of flavour without being overpowering. Expect rich coffee and chocolate notes to dominate the palate, balanced with a smooth mouthfeel that makes it easy to enjoy. The finish is clean, leaving you refreshed and ready for another sip.
Interesting Fact: The blend of five specialty malts in Spinneret highlights the artistry of brewing, showcasing how different malts can work together to create a complex flavour profile. This method is a hallmark of skilled brewers who aim to balance depth and drinkability.
Pairing Suggestions: The rich flavours of Spinneret pair wonderfully with robust dishes. Enjoy it with a hearty beef stew or a classic shepherd’s pie, where the stout’s roasted notes can enhance the flavours of the meat. For dessert, consider pairing it with a chocolate mousse or a rich espresso cake to echo the beer’s chocolate and coffee notes, creating a delightful ending to your meal.
This exploration of stouts and porters showcases the diverse flavour profiles and brewing techniques that make each beer unique. From indulgent desserts to savoury dishes, these beers provide a delightful pairing experience, making them perfect for any occasion. So pour yourself a glass and enjoy the rich flavours that each of these brews has to offer!