Description
If you’re looking for a beer that’s as indulgent as a trip to a high-end patisserie, you’ve found it. Chocolate Moose from the Porthmadog-based wizards at Purple Moose Brewery (Bragdy Mŵs Piws) is a proper multi-award winner that perfectly bridges the gap between a traditional stout and a modern dessert beer.
Chocolate Moose // Purple Moose Brewery
This is a smooth, rich Chocolate & Vanilla Stout that’s become a bit of a cult favourite across Wales. It’s designed to be sumptuous and warming, making it the perfect nightcap for a chilly evening.
The Lowdown
- The Style: A smooth, rich Stout infused with chocolate and vanilla.
- The Stats: The current 440ml craft can sits at a sturdy 5.6% ABV, providing a fuller body and a more decadent feel than the lower-strength cask version.
- The Vibe: Pure liquid luxury. It’s a "dessert beer" in the truest sense—comforting, sweet, and incredibly moreish.
The Build
The magic here comes from the careful balance of deep, roasted malts and sweet additions:
- The Hops: Used very sparingly to provide a subtle, balanced bitterness that ensures the chocolate and vanilla notes don't become cloying.
- The Extras: Infused with natural chocolate and vanilla flavours that meld seamlessly with the roasted grain base to create that signature gateau-like profile.
Tasting Notes
On the pour, it’s a deep, opaque mahogany with a dense, creamy tan head. The aroma is instantly inviting—think high-quality dark chocolate and a hint of sweet vanilla bean. The first sip is remarkably smooth and velvety; you get a wave of rich cocoa followed by a lingering sweetness from the vanilla. It finishes with a gentle, roasted dryness that keeps it feeling like a "proper" stout rather than just a milkshake.
