January 2025: Dark Beer Box

January 2025: Dark Beer Box

Blackjack Summer’s Porter – American Style Porter (5.0%)

This American-style porter greets you with its visually striking appearance: a deepest, darkest brown body crowned by a medium tan head. On the nose, expect a symphony of aromas: rich chocolate, orange citrus zests reminiscent of marmalade, hints of chicory, and a touch of earthy leather. The palate is equally enchanting, dominated by complex malt flavours. Brown and chocolate malts create a roasted, bittersweet backdrop, while notes of marmalade and a Cointreau-like orange essence lend a vibrant, zesty quality. The mouthfeel is thick and luscious, with an oily texture that leads into a long-lasting bitterness, perfect for savouring in the afternoon sunshine.

Interesting Fact: The name "Summer’s Porter" pays homage to E. Summers, who played a key role in the development of this beer. It reflects the brewery’s ethos of blending tradition with a modern twist, showcasing tropical hoppiness alongside a comforting malt body.

Pairing Suggestions: This porter’s roasted malts and orange zest pair beautifully with charred meats, particularly barbecue ribs glazed with a citrusy sauce. For a vegetarian option, try it with roasted sweet potatoes spiced with smoked paprika. To finish, enjoy it with a dark chocolate and orange tart for a decadent dessert.

Pilot American Brown – Brown Ale (4.9%)

Pilot’s American Brown Ale is an inviting blend of caramel sweetness, toasty malt notes, and vibrant hops. Its deep brown hue carries aromas of nuts, baked bread, and a whisper of citrus from American hops. On the palate, expect a rich malt backbone with layers of toffee, caramel, and a subtle hint of pine resin. This beer is full-bodied yet drinkable, delivering the perfect harmony of malty depth and hoppy brightness.

Interesting Fact: The "badly timed" release of this beer, as cheekily noted by the brewery, nods to its debut during a season typically dominated by lighter ales. However, its versatility proves that brown ales have a place on the table year-round.

Pairing Suggestions: Pair this ale with roasted chicken or a mushroom risotto to complement its nutty and caramel notes. For cheese lovers, aged cheddar or Gruyère is an excellent match. End the evening with a pecan pie or toffee pudding to echo the beer’s sweet and nutty profile.

Hammerton Swiss Prism – Chocolate, Almond & Honey Stout (5.7%)

A decadent delight, Hammerton’s Swiss Prism starts with a luscious chocolate base infused with almonds and honey, creating a dessert-like stout. Milk sugars enhance its smooth, velvety texture, while notes of dark chocolate and roasted malts are perfectly balanced by a nutty sweetness and a floral honey finish. It’s indulgent yet surprisingly drinkable.

Interesting Fact: Inspired by Swiss confectionery, this stout celebrates Hammerton’s creative approach to blending beer and dessert. The addition of milk sugars not only enriches the texture but also nods to the creamy character of Swiss milk chocolate.

Pairing Suggestions: This stout pairs wonderfully with sweet treats like almond biscotti or chocolate mousse. For a savoury pairing, try it with aged gouda or a honey-glazed ham to enhance its sweet and nutty notes.

Lost & Grounded Lost Wolf – American-Style Brown Ale (5.2%)

Lost Wolf is a nostalgic nod to the 1990s craft beer revolution, featuring a balanced profile of biscuit malt, piney hops, and citrus zest. Its amber-brown colour invites you in, revealing aromas of caramel, freshly baked bread, and subtle grapefruit. On the palate, biscuit and toffee malts mingle with resinous pine and a crisp citrus bite, resulting in a complex yet refreshing beer.

Interesting Fact: This collaborative brew with Wicklow Wolf symbolizes the camaraderie of the craft beer community. The "Hippo and Wolf" reference hints at the quirky partnership that brought this beer to life.

Pairing Suggestions: Enjoy this brown ale with grilled pork chops or roasted vegetables. It also complements earthy cheeses like Stilton or a hearty beef stew. For dessert, a citrus tart would highlight its zesty hop notes.

360° Double Decker – Milk Stout (4.9%)

Rich and indulgent, the Double Decker Milk Stout layers nine different malts, including chocolate, cara, and double-chocolate malts, for a deeply flavourful experience. Cacao nibs, nougat, and vanilla pods add dessert-like complexity. This stout boasts a velvety mouthfeel, courtesy of lactose, balancing the sweetness with just the right amount of bitterness.

Interesting Fact: The use of nougat and cacao nibs reflects 360°’s dedication to crafting unique flavour profiles. This beer’s name pays homage to the layered complexity achieved through its meticulous brewing process.

Pairing Suggestions: Pair this milk stout with slow-cooked beef or venison stew for a hearty match. It’s also excellent with chocolate lava cake or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luxurious dessert pairing.

Cloudwater Piccadilly Porter – Nitro Porter (4.5%)

Smooth and refined, this nitro porter offers creamy softness with a touch of roastiness. Aromas of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, and a hint of oats are complemented by flavours of caramel and lightly toasted bread. The nitro pour enhances its velvety texture, making it a comforting choice for colder evenings.

Interesting Fact: Named after Manchester’s iconic Piccadilly area, this porter reflects Cloudwater’s roots and connection to the city’s brewing heritage.

Pairing Suggestions: Pair this porter with a classic beef pie or grilled portobello mushrooms. For a sweeter option, try it with a chocolate brownie or tiramisu to match its roasted and creamy notes.

Wilde Child Time Warp – Rocky Road Stout (4.2%)

Packed with flavours of chocolate, biscuit, and marshmallow, this low-ABV stout is a sweet treat in a glass. Seven different malts create a rich, layered base, while the essence of rocky road delivers a nostalgic, dessert-like experience without the heaviness of lactose.

Interesting Fact: Wilde Child’s creative use of rocky road essence showcases their knack for capturing childhood favourites in beer form, making this stout a standout for its unique flavour profile.

Pairing Suggestions: Enjoy this stout with s’mores or a slice of chocolate cake. For a savoury twist, try it with smoked meats or a soft brie to counterbalance its sweetness.

Mad Squirrel De La Terry – Choc Orange Stout (4.5%)

Inspired by the iconic chocolate orange, this stout is a velvety blend of dark cocoa, zesty orange, and creamy malt sweetness. The addition of lactose enhances its luxurious texture, while a gentle bitterness keeps it balanced and drinkable.

Interesting Fact: The playful name "De La Terry" hints at the beer’s inspiration while cleverly steering clear of copyright issues, embodying Mad Squirrel’s fun, creative spirit.

Pairing Suggestions: This stout pairs beautifully with orange-glazed duck or chocolate fondant. For a lighter option, try it with a citrus salad or a simple shortbread biscuit.

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