LCBO Food & Drink Winter 2017

BEER  THE DARK SIDE OF BEER

Imperial Stout

If ever a beer perfectly suited the cold days of winter, imperial stout would be the one. It can be considered a “meditation beer” in that it begs to be savoured, hopefully in front of a fire, to be slowly consumed and enjoyed as the rich, high-alcohol brew gradually opens up and tells its story.

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FLAVOUR The flavour will show signs of chocolate and cof- fee, and there will always be a viscous, rich and creamy mouth feel high- lighted by a pronounced level of alcohol.

PAIR WITH SUMAC-RUBBED PORK RIB CHOPS WITH STOUT‑&- MUSHROOM SAUCE recipe on page 94

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GLASSWARE AND SERVING TEMPERATURE

COLOUR Stout is instantly recog- nizable on account of its colour; which is obtained by using darkly roasted malt. The colour range will be from a deep, dark brown to rich, inky black.

Wellington Imperial Russian Stout LCBO 296269, 473 mL, $3.45

Toasted bitter walnut and coffee grinds on the nose lead into a viscous, warming mouth feel that offers more winter-friendly flavours of chocolate, molasses and dark caramel.

48° TO 55°F

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AROMA Most certainly the aromas will have some chocolate or coffee nuances, along with charred, roasted character- istics, possibly fruitiness or a hop character, depending on the beer.

Forked River Weendigo Imperial Stout LCBO 406199, 500 mL, $8.95

For an imperial stout the ideal glass will allow room for a creamy, full head and plenty of space for the aromas to be enjoyed. Top choice is a chalice, or other rounded, bulbous glass, while a pint glass will also do. Depending on the stout, serving temperatures range from 48° to 55°F (9° to 13°C).

This is a rich, warm beer to be slowly savoured, very interesting and showing a pleasing nose of charred vegetables, chocolate-covered coffee beans and roast beef au jus.

78  FOOD & DRI NK WINTER 2017