
Black & Red by Dogfish Head
Imagine my surprise when just the other day I get an email from a co-worker asking “What do I want?” with a picture of a menu. The menu was from the Dogfish Brewpub in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. A big smile came across my face as I was pondering what I should ask her to bring back for me, in a growler of course. Two options instantly stuck out, Festina Peche and Black & Red. Not one to turn down an offer of fresh craft beer, those were the two I asked for my willing co-worker to bring back from the far off lands of Delaware, home of tax free shopping!
Lets pop open the sealed cap of the Dogfish Head growler (1/2 gallons of liquid heaven) for beer #208…shall we? I went with the Black & Red, which is an American Double or an Imperial Stout brewed by our friends at Dogfish Head in Milton, Delaware although it may be brewed at Rehoboth Beach as I think they do brew there also. The ABV clocked in at a lofty 10.5% which made me wonder if Dogfish brews anything on the lighter side alcohol wise?
I broke out my Duvel tulip glass for the pour, went to my backyard deck armed with camera in hand, poured, and snapped a photo or three. It was black (how much more black could this be? And the answer is none…none more black) with just a touch of a reddish color when held up to the light. The head was disappointing (I’m not a fan of a lackluster head…is there anyone who is?), it was just a small tan ring that topped the beer. Off to take a whiff I went and I was rewarded with an awesome bouquet of mint, chocolate, raspberries, roasted malts, and coffee. Interestingly enough, for such a high ABV, there was no alcohol aroma to be found. I took a sip, one word yum! The raspberries and mint chocolate hit you first and foremost and last throughout the taste profile. Towards the back end of the sip I got some nice roasted malts reminding me of coffee. Once again, the alcohol did not make itself noticeable in the taste. So how was the mouthfeel you may ask? Why it very smooth and creamy. It was very filling and had low carbonation. The alcohol finally kicked in after the first glass full even know I took my time with it. It is going to be one happy time in the old house tonight for sure!
As I sit here with the rain falling gently outside my window and I compose this blog listening to 80’s hair metal (Ratt, Dokken, etc.) cranked to 11 I think to myself, this was absolutely delicious. It just tasted so damn good with nothing out of place or too overpowering. I don’t think you can get this anywhere other then the Dogfish Brewpub in Rehoboth Beach…but if you are there…and it is still on tap…give it a go…I’m sure glad I did!
A big Thank You to my fellow co-worker, you know who you are, who was kind enough to bring this back for me. I raise a glass or three to you!
Have a great weekend all…and to all a good night!
Rating: A+

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