CHOCOLATE ALE (2021)
ALE WITH CACAO NIBS, CHOCOLATE & VANILLA EXTRACTS. A COLLABORATION WITH CHRISTOPHER ELBOW
In developing this beer, Elbow and Boulevard brewmaster Steven Pauwels sought to harmonize the interplay of chocolate and malt, with each supporting and enhancing, but not overwhelming, the other. Just the right chocolate was essential. Elbow recommended Valrhona from the Dominican Republic, prized for its robust flavor and aroma, and a personal favorite. More than a mere savoring, the chocolate — in the form of nibs, or crushed, roasted beans – was incorporated into the brewing process itself.
Reviews
Edgeworth
@ Ray's Cave4 years ago
3.8
Boulevard Brewing slightly changed this Chocolate Ale for a new limited release 2021 version.
Has a short head that dissipates completely. Color is a deep orange amber. Hazy and lots of particulates. The aroma has a strange spiciness to it, totally unexpected. Soft and creamy texture. First impression is that it's a bit boozy, much more than what I would have thought at 8.7%. After numerous sips my taste buds are not registering what is expected. I get strong nutmeg, raw vanilla, with cinnamon dominated spice followed by an elusive raw semi-sweet cocoa. The vanilla and spice dominate the finish and is lasting a long time. One of the most enduring finishes I've experienced. As it warms the cocoa becomes more bitter and more of a dark chocolate.
This brew is a surprise on so many levels. The color, being a somewhat clear but hazy medium orange amber, prepare you for a nice amber ale. What you get is more of a robust spice ale being close to a porter in strength. I did enjoy its complexity but I will probably not try another.