Beer Bright Brewery Black Diamond & Affogato Stout

Bright Brewery's Darker Days festival didn't just herald the arrival of the 2019 Stubborn Russian – which you can read about here – it also saw the High Country brewery welcome two other dark stubbies into the world. Black Diamond is a returning black IPA, named after the most challenging ski runs in Victoria’s alpine resort. On the hop front, there’s a mix of piney and herbal flavours that match against a rather roasted malt profile with lots of dark chocolate.

The second release, Affogato Stout¸ does an impressive job mimicking the classic Italian dessert. Brewed with coffee beans from the brewery’s neighbours at Sixpence Coffee, along with lactose and vanilla, it’s one smooth, creamy and espresso-flavoured beer. It’s also particularly rich, although that richness is balanced by the beer's roasted side. The Bright team suggest you consider pairing it with ice cream and, after one gulp, the feeling is that they could well be on to something.

Will Ziebell