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Darken

Indiana
United States
Darken by Upland Brewing Co.
Judges Ratings 
1 Review
93
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
39 / 40
Appearance:
4 / 6
Mouthfeel:
9 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20
Description 

Darken is a take on an "old ale" or Flanders Oud Bruin style that was brewed with star anise, ginger, grains of paradise, black pepper, and coriander. Formerly named Dantalion (the powerful Great Duke of Hell, if you’re curious), Darken has an approachable tartness, with flavors of spice, fruit, caramel, and chocolate. Darken has a medium-low body, with a dry, spicy finish.

Beverage Profile
ABV: 
9%
IBUs: 
15
Hops: 
Nugget
Malts: 
Pilsner, Pale, Munich, Aromatic, Chocolate, Wheat, Rye, Candi Sugar
Judges Review 
Pat Mulloy's picture
Judges Rating:
93
Aroma:
23 / 24
Appearance:
4 / 6
Flavor:
39 / 40
Mouthfeel:
9 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20

This beer was reviewed as a BJCP 23C, Oud Bruin. It smells like someone poured a shot of expensive balsamic on figs and dates with a shake of black pepper and some anise. Faint chocolate, a hint of barnyard and medium low malt aromas lurk in the background. The deep dark brown to black hue beckons like the abyss blanketed by a modest tan collar with a very fine bead. Complex layered flavors mix and remix on their journey over the palate. Jonathan apple level tart increases and decreases. Dark dried fruit, figs and dates mix with berries. Anise and black pepper are definite players joined by coriander and something else. A trace of chocolate and a hint of caramel suggest a moist cake. Then there is a dash of balsamic. The brewer shines here by knowing exactly when to take this beer off the oak. Oak tannin plays well with the tart and the spices and has me wondering where can I buy this.

Brewery Introduction

Located in Bloomington, Indiana, Upland Brewing Co. began its intriguing story in 1998 with a mission to brew remarkable beers in remarkable ways, staying true to the artisan, progressive spirit found in our part of the Midwest. Our sour program began in 2006 as a way to entertain our curious... Read More