Breakside Brewing’s Barrel-Aged Beers

Sip and Savor: Breakside Brewing’s Innovative Barrel-Aged Stouts

Breakside Brewing has long been celebrated for its innovative approach to brewing, particularly in the realm of barrel-aged beers. Their latest offerings, “The Year of Magical Thinking,” “Don’t Worry About the Fireplace,” and “A Sweater for an Octopus,” bring a delightful depth of flavor that promises to satisfy.

The Year of Magical Thinking

Kickstarting the year 2025 with “The Year of Magical Thinking,” this stout blend captures attention immediately. It melds Imperial Stout aged in Kentucky Bourbon barrels with notes of toffee, vanilla, and caramel. The craftsmanship is impressive, showcasing a beautifully integrated flavor profile that includes hints of milk duds, flan, and oak spice.

This limited-release beer boasts an ABV of 14.5%, inviting beer lovers to embrace its rich complexity. The four batches of this blend were carefully brewed, with each cask aged thoughtfully. This attention to detail results in a balanced beer that harmonizes sweetness and roastiness.

Pair this stout with decadent desserts like chocolate lava cake or a creamy flan. Strong cheeses, such as aged Gouda or blue cheese, will also elevate your tasting experience, creating an indulgent pairing that resonates with the beer’s rich character.

Don’t Worry About the Fireplace

“Don’t Worry About the Fireplace” is an exceptional barrel-aged Imperial Milk Stout. It is aged in whiskey and apple brandy barrels. The brew includes Ugandan vanilla beans for added flavor. This beer combines fudgy notes from a porter. It also features dark fruit from a stout and caramel from a barleywine. The barrel aging and vanilla further enhance these flavors. Tasting notes include cider mill, brown sugar, and chocolate brandy baba. With a robust 13.5% ABV, it is a rich and complex pastry stout.

Each sip evokes a feeling of contentment, reminiscent of sipping on a warm beverage by the fire. This brew invites winter gatherings, providing an experience that feels both nostalgic and refined.

Ideal food pairings for pastry stouts include rich chocolate desserts and vanilla-based treats. Strong cheeses also work well.

Use these general pairing strategies for your pastry stout:

• Match Intensity: Pair with flavorful foods to prevent overpowering tastes.
• Complementary Flavors: Look for shared flavor notes, such as chocolate with chocolate or vanilla with vanilla.
• Contrast for Balance: Use contrasting elements, like salty cheese, to balance sweetness in pastry stouts.

For “Don’t Worry About the Fireplace,” focus on rich desserts highlighting chocolate, vanilla, apple, and caramel. Strong cheeses will enhance the experience.

A Sweater for an Octopus

Breakside Brewing has truly outdone itself with A Sweater for an Octopus. This barrel-aged stout is a delightful blend that takes beer enthusiasts into new territory. It marks the brewery’s first use of tea as an adjunct, enhancing its distinct profile.

At first, Breakside crafted a cohesive 12-cask blend. However, the brewers sensed it needed a little twist. They aimed to amplify the unique jammy, blackberry notes while adding structure. This quest led them to the idea of introducing tea.

After several benchtop trials, they chose two single-origin teas from Smith Teamaker. Rooibos accentuates the berry flavors, while a hint of black tea brings depth and tannins. These adjuncts enhance the stout without overpowering it, creating a harmonious experience.

Pairing this stout with food elevates the tasting experience. It complements grilled or smoked meats beautifully. Try it with grilled steak or smoked ribs for a match made in heaven. The robust flavors of beef stew or shepherd’s pie also meld perfectly with A Sweater for an Octopus.

For dessert, consider options like dark chocolate cake or creamy cheesecake. The stout’s bitterness pairs well with chocolate notes, intensifying the richness. Ultimately, Breakside invites you to seek out the unique attributes. Discover where the barrel flavors end and the tea begins. Enjoy this outstanding brew!

Conclusion

Breakside Brewing’s latest barrel-aged beers—“The Year of Magical Thinking,” “Don’t Worry About the Fireplace,” and “A Sweater for an Octopus”—offer a remarkable journey through innovative flavors and rich complexity. Each brew presents unique tasting experiences that pair beautifully with a variety of foods, making them perfect for any occasion. For those eager to try these exceptional brews, you can find them available at Newport Ave. Market. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in these delightful creations!