Jan 24, 2017

Ommegang Lovely, Dark and Deep

Back in November of last year, I reviewed a double IPA from Brewery Ommegang. In that post I mentioned a shift — to more “standard” beer styles — in the company’s products that had me curious, mentioning a roasty oatmeal stout. Lovely, Dark and Deep is that stout. While an oatmeal stout isn’t your typical Belgian-style affair the brewing is typically known for, this one has a roasty and earthy character that separates it from the rest.

The 5.3% ABV Lovely, Dark and Deep isn’t a big beer really, but its flavors come across much bigger than expected. A smokey edge lingers with the dominant roast malt backbone as cocoa, oatmeal and coffee tag along for the ride. There’s an earthiness and rustic character within the beer’s dark depths, as well. A moderate sweetness is tempered by a light hop bitterness that only adds to the array of flavors as the smooth-bodied beer glides over the tongue.

While Brewery Ommegang still crafts solid Belgian-style ales, I supposed it makes sense for them to keep things diverse not only for their customers, but also themselves. And that is evident in Lovely, Dark and Deep. This isn’t your standard oatmeal stout — it’s rustic, slightly raw yet still velvety smooth on the palate. It’s also a beer that has shown up a good deal in the beer fridge since first cracking open a bottle late last year.