Raw Dark Peak Stout - ABV: 4.5%
Raw Brewery began after Prospect Brewery in Wigan decided to expand following huge success. The Brewery was moved across the Pennines to its new home in Staveley, near Chesterfield in April 2010 and their first beer was brewed on the 15th May. That first beer was Grey Ghost IPA (named after the brewery dog), quickly followed by two other beers, Dark Peak Stout and Blonde Pale Ale.
Their background...
"The name Raw came about from the simple fact that all of our beers will only ever be produced using Raw and natural ingredients to produce traditional real ales of the highest quality. Once the core beers are established a selection of special editions and seasonal beers will be produced to accompany them. We are proud to join the other excellent Breweries in Derbyshire, many of them have helped us along the way and we have become a member of the Derbyshire Brewers Collective."
Dark Peak poured really well, with a nice thick off-white head which sadly disappeared after a few minutes, leaving virtually no lacing down the glass.
The aroma is reminiscent of dark coffee, with hints of liquorice, chocolate and red fruit.
Once in the mouth, there's a nice warm maltiness to the flavour, with toasted caramel and a long bitter finish, thanks to the English hops used.
It's a very easy drinking stout, with good flavours and a lovely hoppy balance. I'd prefer a tad more life, but that's a minor criticism.
Verdict: 3.5/5
Their background...
"The name Raw came about from the simple fact that all of our beers will only ever be produced using Raw and natural ingredients to produce traditional real ales of the highest quality. Once the core beers are established a selection of special editions and seasonal beers will be produced to accompany them. We are proud to join the other excellent Breweries in Derbyshire, many of them have helped us along the way and we have become a member of the Derbyshire Brewers Collective."
Dark Peak poured really well, with a nice thick off-white head which sadly disappeared after a few minutes, leaving virtually no lacing down the glass.
The aroma is reminiscent of dark coffee, with hints of liquorice, chocolate and red fruit.
Once in the mouth, there's a nice warm maltiness to the flavour, with toasted caramel and a long bitter finish, thanks to the English hops used.
It's a very easy drinking stout, with good flavours and a lovely hoppy balance. I'd prefer a tad more life, but that's a minor criticism.
Verdict: 3.5/5