Dark Necessities

Dark Necessities refer to a range of beers characterized by their dark color, rich flavor profiles, and complex brewing processes. Such beers include stouts, porters, dark lagers, and Belgian-style dubbels, among others. Typically, these beers are crafted using a higher proportion of dark malts, such as roasted barley or chocolate malt, which lend their signature color, aroma, and flavors, including chocolate, coffee, caramel, and dried fruits.

Dark beers have a lengthy brewing history, originating from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, and later evolving in Europe, specifically in countries like England, Ireland, Germany, and Belgium. Brewers in these beer-loving nations experimented with diverse ingredients and techniques to produce a variety of dark beer styles, ranging from the dry and roasty Irish stouts to the smooth and malty German bocks. In modern times, craft breweries continue to push the boundaries of dark beer by incorporating innovative and unique ingredients, including barrel aging, spices, and adjuncts like cocoa nibs, vanilla, and coffee beans.