Winter Storm Juno has surged through New England like a bull in a china shop. Some areas were struck worse then others, leaving behind snow depths of over two feet. Howling winds whipped the snow and ice to a degree in which 24 hour shelter was in need. What better way to reap the rewards of getting snowed in than crashing by the fire with friends, watching the panoramic clash of elements, while crushing some brew-HAS?!?! Needless to say, this wintery Tuesday has manifested a venue for appreciating heat with the helping hands of harmonious craft beers. These liquids should be celebrated and consumed everyday; however, on a snow day, we can start early :).

Dark Horse Brewing - Tres Blueberry Stout

Dark Horse hails from Marshall, Michigan which I’m sure, has dealt with its fair share of snowfall. And to show signs of sincere empathy, we would like to make a toast to the midwestern folks of Dark Horse and Michigan’s craft following. Blizzards and snow days don’t necessarily occur on a frequent basis here in Connecticut; therefore, we shouldn’t drink beers we taste on a frequent basis. Let’s branch off to an innovative style such as Tres. This American Stout is brewed with malted barley and blueberries, clocking out at 7.5%.

Tres pours a deep, dark brown with a thin, firm caramel head. Aroma is a bouquet of plums, dark cherries, raisins, caramel, hazelnut, honeycomb, and of course… blueberries. An underlying roasted malt compensates for the sweeter qualities. Mouthfeel is on the heavy side with just enough carbonation to accomodate the backbone. Blueberry muffin comes out strong in the taste. More or less like a pumpernickel blueberry muffin w/ chocolate chips and a side of espresso. Except it’s a rich, roasty, savory barley pop regurgitated from the heavens. Cheers to Dark Horse, cheers to blueberries, cheers to ingenuity, and cheers to snow days. Drink Responsibly. Over & Out.