Projo Beer Blog

April 2006 Archives

Here are two beers that are so good, they're like candy. Unfortunately, they're also going out of season, so you might want to keep them in mind for next winter.

Here's the official story behind Brooklyn Black Chocolate Stout: Russian czarina Catherine the Great in the 18th century asked for stout to be sent to her from England. To prevent the beer from spoiling, the brewers made it strong and added more hops as a preservative. The beer subsequently became known as Russian Imperial Stout, and is the inspiration of Brooklyn Brewery's modern product. Black Chocolate Stout packs a punch, at 8.7-percent alcohol. Brooklyn Brewery recommends drinking this with chocolate desserts, cheesecake, fruits, and other sweets. Black Chocolate Stout complements these things nicely because of its intensely bittersweet taste. It's almost like having a strong coffee with your dessert.

Saranac Caramel Porter is another product of New York state, and it's completely different than Black Chocolate Stout. Available in Saranac's signature seasonal 12-packs, Caramel Porter is all about over-the-top flavor; there's nothing subtle about the caramel flavor. At less than 5-percent alcohol, you can certainly try another if you like your first glass of Caramel Porter.