92 Bump in the Night Cascadian Dark Ale, Full Sail Brewing Co. (OR). 6.5% ABV (3/11)
Dark reddish brown color. Mouthwatering aromas and flavors of seared ham and Gouda on buttery toasted pumpernickel with a tangy touch of a red sauerkraut. Round and supple with a frothy, dryish medium-to-full with buttery, caramelized dark roasted nuts and coffee beans, honeyed citrus and dates, cocoa and peppery radicchio-like hops. A tantalizing amalgamation of flavors; serve with artisan sandwiches with spicy relishes.
91 Demonic Ale, Blue Tractor Brewery (MI). 6.88% ABV (11/10) %{Brewpub}
Brown black color. Aromas of cheese pastry, mocha, grapefruit and dried meat with a round, zesty, dryish medium-full body and a peppery savory, coffee, frittata, grass and citrus peel-like hop finish. Different and fun.
89 Lakefront India Black Ale, Lakefront Brewery (WI). 6.5% ABV (3/11)
Dark muddy brown color. Bold aromas and flavors of stewed cabbage and parsnips, grilled grapefruit and kale and sappy pine needles with a round, chewy dryish medium-full body and notes of apple butter, coffee, anise and sassafras rounding out the crisp and astringent, dusty, peppery radish skin-like hop finish. A rich, almost brooding dark hoppy beer; pair with exotic game stews and sausages.
86 Black Torrent IPA, Destihl Restaurant & Brew Works (IL). 6.7% ABV (3/11) %{Brewpub}
Opaque brown black color with a faint lacy head. Aromas of freshly baking date bread, baker’s chocolate, chicory and pickled okra with a silky, dryish medium-full body and a savory and smooth roasted nut nougat, caramel and puréed sweet potato finish with leafy hops.
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