Erebus and Viscosiraptor first appeared in 2020 in a spot of cross-city, big-beer rivalry with Little Bang Brewing, with the beastly pair back for another outing in 2021. In Greek Mythology, Erebus is the god of deep darkness, a fitting name indeed for this Russian imperial stout, which gains its colour through healthy additions of Eclipse, light chocolate, roasted barley and dark crystal malts, while the traditional hop Fuggles meets New World Sabro in the boil.
The pour from the can takes time, as Erebus has a thick, visceral texture that's jet black in appearance and topped off by a chocolate brown head. Creamy espresso coffee aromas reign forth with sweet dark chocolate and a little roast, and the initial impression to taste that of a sweet stout. Espresso coffee features large within the bitter dark liquid chocolate with some dried sultanas doing a little heavy lifting too ahead of a decent yet balanced bitterness.
Viscosiraptor is an American barleywine whose first impression is in your face. Light brown in colour, the aroma is sweet, taking the form of dried dates, sultanas, currants, a little caramel, toffee and even a touch of citrus. The sweetness works in well with the syrupy nature of the barleywine, making for a slow sipper. Again, the aforementioned dried fruits come into play, working together in harmony alongside a little bitter grapefruit which contributes to the balanced bitterness. The booze lingers but is a welcome closer, leaving the drinker feeling warm inside.
Matt King
Published June 16, 2021 2021-06-16 00:00:00
