Craft Beer, Meet Craft Chocolate

~ As a finale to Colorado Craft Beer week, what better way to celebrate than with two superb things - beer and chocolate? Let the pairings begin! ~ 

After missing a beer and chocolate pairing at Bristol Brewing with Radiantly Raw Chocolates in Colorado Springs (which, needless to say, I was bummed about), I felt it only fitting to create my own. Nuance Chocolate and the ever faithful Wilbur's to the rescue - the result was a tasty afternoon on my front porch with a friend. 

Truffles from Nuance included an Ecuador single origin, a Ghana single origin, and an orange truffle to mix things up. Beers from Telluride Brewing Company in Telluride, Bonfire Brewing in Eagle, and Avery Brewing Co. in Boulder rounded out our Colorado selections. 

After much 'tasteful' deliberation, we paired the chocolates as follows. 

Ecuador Truffle ~ Smooth with nutty & marshmallow notes 
Telluride Face Down Brown Ale ~ Nutty, cocoa and toffee 
Together ~ Great combo! Lots of nutty chocolate stuff going on in both elements - together, they are awesome. 

Orange Truffle ~ Pleasant citrus acidity, almost liqueur like
Bonfire Brewing Brush Creek Blonde Ale ~ A malty marriage of wheat and hops
Together ~ This wasn't our favorite pairing, but individually the truffle and the beer were delicious. 

Ghana Truffle ~ Notes of tropical fruits 
Avery India Pale Ale ~ Grapefruit, pine, hops 
Together ~ A tropical, piquant, delightful experience. 

I'm sure these pairings could be improved upon, but I strongly recommend picking up some local truffles and brews and trying this out for yourself! Tasting each chocolate with all the beers brought out different flavors from both, and its a fabulous twist on to drinks on the front porch with friends. Cheers! 
~ Sadie 

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