When we last ordered beers from La Debauche, they were very keen for us to try some of their more daring creations. And the Black Phillip would definitely fall into that category.
The label design is based on the film The Witch – a supernatural horror film that follows a family who encounter forces of evil on the outskirts of their farm. The link in the film is the line ‘Wouldst thou like to live deliciously?’
It is an imperial stout of 10%, barrel aged and spiked with wild Brettanomyces yeast. So we have 2 (or even 3) big character elements vying for attention in this one beer. My thoughts are that we will get some varied feedback with this one!
From the pour the beer is pitch black with a thick tan head. The beer is really very lively for a stout, so we’d recommend no long pours.
Straight away the brett is noticeable in the aroma. Earthy, leathery funk that sits side by side with the more usual chocolate, caramel and roasted malt character.
It is kind of sweet but quickly turns a little sour and funky. In the background is coffee, tobacco, dark chocolate and the bit of acidity that seems to build in the complex, bitter finish.