While having a pilsner or ale is nice any time of year, these shorter days and crisp weather always has me reaching for something darker and richer. This month we have two selections in different styles of darker beer from the cooler corners of Europe from producers known for their quality. To Øl have solidified their reputation making great beers in a range of styles and in collaborations with the likes of Pohjala, Jackie O’s, and Mikkeler. Starting out as a home brew project in 2005, they became a full time commercial project in 2010, brewing their beer at various breweries before getting their own facility in 2019. Fantome was started in 1988 with founder Dany Prignon and his fathers interest in ancient local table beer recipes from around the area and their own local history. They have gained a cult following for their saisons with unique and delicious combinations.
Cheers!
PlumpJack Team
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Origin: Denmark |
This collaboration with Koppi Coffee Roasters is a decadent, mouth coating stout aged 21 months in bourbon barrels and maturated with roasted Costa Rican coffee beans. Rich notes of coffee, toasted peanut, rich milk chocolate, and bourbon with a slight fruitiness on the finish. Great on its own, but would also be great poured over ice cream for a delicious float. |
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Beer Style: Imperial Coffee Stout |
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Abv: 13.1% |
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Suggested Food Pairing: Black forest cake, marbled cheesecake |
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Origin: Belgium |
A darker Saison-style Belgian ale brewed with cocoa powder from their local chocolaterie Defroidmont and chili powder, which provide a slight warmth and an almost root beer-like finish to the golden raisin and sour cherry flavors. This beer is begging to be paired with a hearty stew! |
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Beer Style: Belgian Ale |
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Abv: 6% |
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Suggested Food Pairing: Pork or chicken mole (pumpkin or another yellow squash can substitute as a vegetarian option) |
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