These are my pictures and tasting notes. My honest, initial impressions are what I've typed here. Since I learned more later, I've added some other thoughts or details parentheses.
Citrus Zest White Chocolate with Pretzels
paired with Citra IPA
Wonderful. The Citra IPA is very light and open. It leaves a great space for the chocolate. The truffle opens salty, but finishes zesty and sweet.
(I never knew white chocolate could taste so good! The beer was very light and delicate. I was surprised by both. I'm kicking myself for forgetting to snag a growler of this.)
Chocolate Cherry Cordial paired with Cherry Dubbel
Excellent chocolate! The chocolate melts a little, but there is a solid crunch. The filling was a tasty cherry-brandy reduction. It had just enough kick, but wasn't overpowering. The beer was just okay. It is a cherry dubbel. I do appreciate the dryness of the beer.
(Full disclosure here, I'm not trying to hate on this beer. I have been a little burnt out on Belgians recently. Also, this was my favorite chocolate!)
Chocolate Espresso Brownie Bite
paired with The Dark Side
Thick rich brownie. It's just bitter enough to bounce along with the FANTASTIC Dark Side. Just great! The brownie is dense, but not chewy– what a feat! The slightly boozey beer flavor fits right around the brownie.
(What I mean by ‘not chewy’ is that the brownie was done. It didn't seem under-baked.)
Spiced Toffee Chocolate Bar paired with The Highlander
Not sure about the pairing… I LOVE the toffee! The little flecks of bronze in the top make a nice impression. The cayenne hits right after the toffee really opens up. Great execution. I like this beer. It's round and malty. I guess the spice pierces the malt well?
(Apparently, many others thought this was the best pairing. This was my second favorite chocolate of the evening.)
Cookie Crumbled Dark Chocolate Pâté
paired with Señor Chocolatoro
Very round, nice and thick paté flavor. Great! Buttery texture, but plenty of flavor– NOT “buttery-bad.” The beer is very airy and woody. I love how light it is compared to how heavy it could be. Just chocolatey enough!
(Ryan later told me that he chose to call this a pâté because if you leave it in room temperature for a few hours, it will be a spreadable consistency. Also, it had bits of dried fruit in it.)
Winter Spiced White Chocolate
paired with Yuletide Winter Warmer
This is stupendous. Perfect pairing! Lotsa spices. I couldn't actually drink a whole glass, but I love this taste of beer. The chocolate is terrific. The cinnamon and nutmeg give just a slight burn. :)
And there you have it. I had a great time, and can't wait for another one to come along. If you haven't already, please do yourself a favor and check out Iron Hill. Also, if you want some serious chocolates for an upcoming event, look Ryan up.
paired with Señor Chocolatoro
Very round, nice and thick paté flavor. Great! Buttery texture, but plenty of flavor– NOT “buttery-bad.” The beer is very airy and woody. I love how light it is compared to how heavy it could be. Just chocolatey enough!
(Ryan later told me that he chose to call this a pâté because if you leave it in room temperature for a few hours, it will be a spreadable consistency. Also, it had bits of dried fruit in it.)
Winter Spiced White Chocolate
paired with Yuletide Winter Warmer
This is stupendous. Perfect pairing! Lotsa spices. I couldn't actually drink a whole glass, but I love this taste of beer. The chocolate is terrific. The cinnamon and nutmeg give just a slight burn. :)
And there you have it. I had a great time, and can't wait for another one to come along. If you haven't already, please do yourself a favor and check out Iron Hill. Also, if you want some serious chocolates for an upcoming event, look Ryan up.
