Pastoral is having a blast with the myriad of events around the city for Chicago Craft Beer Week. We even revamped our beer selection for the occasion! We have brought in several new beers with the intention of further showcasing the broad spectrum of beer styles as they relate to pairing with our broad spectrum of cheese, chocolate, and charcuterie offerings.

Pairing #5:

Meantime London Porter and Madécasse Sea Salt & Cocoa Nibs Chocolate Bar

Brewery: Meantime Brewery
Style: Porter
Region: London, England
ABV: 6.5%

London’s Meantime Brewery makes beer with astonishing balance. It’s a Porter; we expected roasted notes of coffee, toffee, and nuts.  We didn’t expect a relatively lighter body and more persistent carbonation. This is the perfect “dark” beer for summer and a get out of jail free card in regard to pairing bigger cheeses like cheddar and gouda. With chocolate, however, shut the front door! Rich, decadent, sweet and savory all at once. Bring this pairing home when you are in the dog house and put things into perspective.