After his debut entrance as a breakfast stout in 2018, then as a Belgian strong dark ale in 2019, Kronos has reappeared in titanic glory in 2020 as an imperial coffee stout on nitro - and, for the first time, in cans. Since we've already discussed the family history and eventual incarceration of the eponymous king of the Titans, let’s just jump straight into the beer. (Pause for daydreaming about jumping into a swimming pool of imperial stout.)
Kronos is thick and powerful enough to require chewing. Malt sweetness - in the form of burnt caramel and smooth dark chocolate - carries bucketloads of coffee character. The coffee itself was sourced from southside locals Black Milk Coffee Roasters, and added at a couple of stages for full potency. Though not quite the ABV or impenetrable darkness of the original breakfast stout, this year’s Kronos tops the original in bitterness - bittering hops, roasted malt and coffee work together to beat 81 IBU into this beer.
But don’t worry - these potentially hulking flavours are brought under control by the easy-going smoothness of a nitro pour (made easy by Helios owner Scott showing you how to pour Kronos for best results).
Mick Wust
Published July 16, 2020 2020-07-16 00:00:00
