Alewerks Brewing Company's own line on this one is hard to improve on: some beers are brewed, others are crafted as an experience, and Black Forest is decidedly the latter. Inspired by the classic Black Forest gateau, this is an Imperial Chocolate Stout aged on a blend of sweet and sour cherry puree before spending six to twelve months resting in bourbon barrels, which is a longer commitment than most desserts get before someone eats them.
The payoff is a beer built to mimic that cake almost note for note: rich, velvety chocolate up front, bright bursts of cherry cutting through the middle, and a warm, whiskey-kissed finish that lingers well after the glass is empty. At 9.5% ABV, this isn't something to rush through, which is convenient, since it's clearly not designed to be rushed through anyway.
Williamsburg's Alewerks has built a reputation on this kind of patient, dessert-adjacent barrel project, and Black Forest reads like the result of a brewery that genuinely enjoys the six-to-twelve-month wait as much as the eventual pour. Quantities are limited, so this is very much a "don't overthink it, just go" situation.
Available on tap and in 500ml bottles this weekend, exclusively at the Alewerks Taprooms. Whether you crack one open immediately or tuck a bottle away for later, the brewery's betting this is a beer built to be remembered either way.
Grab a glass, find a patio, and let the bourbon barrels do the rest of the talking.