Editor’s note: We asked Marcus Chamberland, who writes the biweekly “Drink Up” column in the Food section, for a list of his five favorite Colorado beers right now. These are his picks.
Smoked Baltic Porter by Great Divide Brewing Co., Denver
Great gobs of espresso, dark chocolate and smoke make this porter a killer dessert companion or just a treat by itself. A smooth, dense mouthfeel adds richness to the experience. Light up a good cigar to go with this one, and your senses will be on an ocean cruise.
400 Pound Monkey by Left Hand Brewing Co., Longmont
At first blush, this British-style IPA (India Pale Ale) seems somewhat unspectacular, but to a degree, that’s the point. Unlike hop-bomb American IPAs, this clear, golden ale is subtle and beautifully balanced, with discernible malt set off by gentle bitter hops. An understated star.
Saboteur Brett Barrel Brown Ale by Odell Brewing Co., Fort Collins
With its Single Serve series, Odell has been setting itself apart even among craft brewers as a true premium house. Saboteur caters to beer aficionados with this dark-brown/ ruby ale that’s fermented with brettanomyces and aged in oak barrels, resulting in flavors of roasted malt, cocoa, port and sour cherry. Another home run for Odell.
Vanilla Porter by Breckenridge Brewery, Denver
It isn’t for everybody; its description might sound like a candy store, but Breck takes a basic porter with its smoothness and primary flavors of coffee and chocolate and adds vanilla beans to the mix. The result is a creamy, rich, caramelly brew that’s worthy of drinking year-round.
Gubna Imperial IPA by Oskar Blues Brewery, Lyons
The aroma of this big (10 percent alcohol by volume) beer will remind some of a certain medicinal herb that’s cousin to the hops that are amply represented here. The latest addition to the Oskar Blues line is sweet, piney and citrusy upfront, with major grapefruit and even a hint of onion. The finish kicks the bitter hops way up high. Marcus Chamberland
