Cool Springs Wines & Spirits' Featured Beer
Black and Blue brewed by Dogfish Head Brewery in Milton, Delaware
Now it's time for something completely different. Many of you know that Dogfish Head Brewery has a penchant for experimental brews, and the Black and Blue is a great example. This is a malt beverage brewed with unfermented black raspberry and blueberry juice, but still weighs in at 10% alcohol by volume.
First off, there is a strong Belgian influence here. Belgian yeast was clearly used to form the slightly spicy malt base. In order to round off the hint of sweetness from the malt, the brewers threw in some bitter Hallertau and Saaz hops, and the effect is subtle but noticeable.
The big story here, however, is the fruit juice. Dogfish Head has done an admirable job of balancing this beer with dark fruit juices that impart a strong tart, fruity element without even coming close to a cloying sweet fruit beer. The effect is so balanced and subtle that, If I didn't know better, I might even guess that the whole product was a result of Belgian yeast. There is, however, a pronounced acidity that is rare in beer and results in a uniquely smooth and refreshing brew that will pair well with light cheeses and even light meat dishes.
The unique synergy of hop, malt, fruit, spice and alcohol in this beer is very rare and definitely worth a try.
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