Day 10: Stout

Stout

Origin: Gæðingur Öl Brugghús (Skagafirði, Iceland)

Style: Stout

ABV: 5.6%

IBU: Not Listed

Description: From the land of glaciers, volcanoes and Björk, Iceland’s Gæðingur Öl Brugghús, (“Gæðingur Öl” meaning “Thoroughbred Ale”) is a 6-barrel brewery that opened in 2011. Brewing, I’d imagine, has a relatively short history in Iceland, since the prohibition of all alcoholic beverages was implemented  in 1915, and beer remained illegal until March 1989! Why the ban remained in place for so long, I’ll never know, but I’m sure glad Icelanders can make, sell, and drink beer again.

Stout is one of the four beers in Gæðingur Öl Brugghús’ lineup. It pours dark-brown with a surprisingly thin, tan head that dissipates quickly. Its lively carbonation and colour remind me a little bit of Dr. Pepper.

But that’s where the similarity ends. The aroma is of roasted malt, coffee, and a trace of licorice. A sip of it confirms the roasted malt is in the forefront, perhaps a bit too roasted as it overwhelms the brew’s thin body. However, when the stout warms a bit, coffee & licorice finally hit the palate to balance the roasted maltiness.

I’d imagine a succulent pulled pork sandwich would pair quite well with this stout. For someone who’s curious about Icelandic beers, Borg Brugghús makes an imperial stout clocking in at 11.5%ABV (!!) called Garún Icelandic Stout NR.19. Expect notes of chocolate, coffee and licorice. BC breweries also make delicious stouts.  Bridge Brewing‘s All Out Stout and Longwood‘s Stoutnik are ones I’d always recommend.  – C.T.

Man on his thoroughbred