Although wine and chocolate have been in a long-term relationship (and it is not often recommended unless the wine is sweeter than the treat), chocolate is not a monogamous partner in terms of spirited companionship. Although this revelation may bring thoughts of a bourbon or nutty liqueur-filled affair to mind, this is a true example of the unexpected contender winning the race, and this contender is beer.
Like with all pairings, not just any beer preceding a bite of any chocolate will result in a euphoric explosion of flavor, but rather it must be a methodical process. Considering the vast varieties of both beers and chocolates on the market (which we are definitely not complaining about), we’re here to offer advice and hopefully make the decision-making process easier.
Sours and Dark Chocolate: It is said that opposites attract and although this saying may not always work out in the dating world, the pairing of sour beers with dark chocolate proves this to be a fact in the realm of taste. As explained by one of the bartenders at Portland’s Cascade Brewing Barrel House (an outstanding pioneer of the sour beer movement of the Northwest), the bitterness of their locally crafted dark chocolate truffles cuts the tartness of the beer while, simultaneously, the sourness of beer counteracts with the bitterness of the dark chocolate and results in a sweet, delicious finish. The Kriek (cherry) and the Apricot sour beers are the fan favorites to pair with chocolate due to their fruity base and tartness as opposed to a vinegary sour. Having been aged in oak barrels, these sours have subtle notes of vanilla and spice that discreetly complement the cocoa. The Breakside Brewery Passionfruit Sour is another great option for pairing with chocolate. With the Passionfruit Berliner Weisse being true to its namesake with a tart acidity and intense tropical flavor, the pairing is sweet and savory with an unimposing reminiscence of a fruity truffle.
Stouts and Cacao: Although the idea of pairing a chocolaty stout with chocolate almost sounds too easy to be successful, it is undoubtedly a decadent combination of rich goodness. A rich milk or nutty chocolate makes for a sultry indulgence that brings out the caramel notes in smooth, coffee-based stouts like the Base Camp Brewing Co. S’more Stout. Both milk and bittersweet chocolate complement Rogue’s Chocolate and Double Chocolate Stouts which boast of sweet, creamy truffles. Rich porters and dark beers in general tend to fare well with chocolate, but too bitter of a treat paired with too bitter of a brew may overwhelm the palate so sticking to milk with a sweeter dark ale is a recommended rule of thumb.
Considering the fact that an excuse is never needed to crack open a beer or unwrap a chocolate, it is no wonder these two luxuries make such a winning team. Although Valentine’s Day may be around the block as opposed to around the corner, it is never too early to treat yourself or your special someone to a chocolaty delight, but instead of heading toward the wine section of the store, take a turn down the craft beer aisle—you won’t be disappointed.
