What do you get when you take one part scientific coffee brewer and another part award-winning brewmaster? Some intensely caffeinated beer, that's what! Two great minds teamed up on a limited-edition taste that will get you pretty hopped up (Insert wah-wah trombone here).
The players: Portola Coffee Lab owner Jeff Dugan and TAPS Brewmaster Victor Novak. The occasion: After two successful collaborations, a reason isn't even necessary. Earlier this year, the duo created a Portola Porter; and for The Bruery's third anniversary they came up with Imperial Balinese Stout. This season's showstopper takes a step back in time.
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TAPS' Neo-Colonial Stout is masterfully brewed at their Brea location with Portola's Tanzania Peaberry coffee. Considered an English-style Oatmeal Stout, the dark brew maintains a 6% alcohol by volume (ABV) content. Served at both TAPS locations in Brea and Corona, this 14 keg run also makes an appearance at The Surly Goat in West Hollywood.
Mark your calendars, though. This eye-opening brew is only available through September 1. If you're hesitant to down a pint, start with a flight and savor the smooth finish. Maybe even pair it with a dessert, as Tom Hope, culinary director, recommends. Something to complement the hints of cocoa and citrus should work. Just plan to run laps at Craig Regional Park afterwards ...
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A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.