Norfolk Brewhouse - Moon Gazer - Bouchart X
About The Beer:
Moon Gazer Bouchart X is a bold and complex dark ale, celebrating the 10th anniversary of Norfolk Brewhouse. The plan was to supercharge an existing beer (Bouchart Mild) . This rich, full-bodied beer combines deep roasted malt flavours with subtle hints of dark chocolate, coffee, and caramel. The smooth bitterness is balanced by a warming sweetness, offering a well-rounded and satisfying finish. Bouchart X is a true indulgence for those who enjoy a robust ale with layers of flavour that reveal themselves with every sip.
About The Brewery:
Norfolk Brewhouse is an award-winning, family-run brewery located in the heart of rural Norfolk, dedicated to crafting high-quality beers using locally sourced ingredients. Established with a passion for brewing and a love for the region's rich agricultural heritage, Norfolk Brewhouse creates distinctive, flavourful beers that showcase the finest malt, barley, and hops. From traditional ales to innovative seasonal brews, each bottle is a celebration of craftsmanship and sustainability, offering a true taste of Norfolk.
Tasting Notes:
Appearance:
- Colour: Deep, rich mahogany to near-black with ruby highlights.
- Head: A creamy tan head that lingers, leaving smooth, delicate lacing.
Aroma:
- Malt: Dominated by dark malts, offering deep aromas of roasted coffee, cocoa, and toasted bread.
- Hops: Gently hopped, with faint earthy and floral notes in the background.
- Additional Notes: Subtle hints of liquorice and blackcurrant, adding a complex sweetness.
Flavour:
- Malt: The dark malts are the star, with bold flavours of chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and caramelised sugar.
- Hops: The hop bitterness is restrained, allowing the malt profile to shine while adding just enough balance.
- Additional Notes: Liquorice and blackcurrant come through gently, enhancing the beer’s depth. A soft sweetness rounds out the bitterness, accompanied by a subtle chocolate undertone.
Mouthfeel:
- Body: Full-bodied and smooth, with a velvety texture that coats the palate.
- Finish: Smooth and slightly sweet, with a lingering dark fruit and chocolate finish.
Overall Impression:
This dark, strong beer offers a rich, layered experience, with the dark malts taking centre stage. The combination of liquorice, blackcurrant, and chocolate notes provides a pleasing complexity, while the gentle hopping keeps the beer balanced and approachable. The sweetness is subtle, contributing to a smooth, satisfying finish.
Perfect for sipping and savouring, this beer is a testament to Norfolk Brewhouse’s ability to craft bold, flavour-forward brews.
Food Pairings:
Bouchart X pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes like roasted meats, stews, and grilled sausages. Its rich malt character also complements strong cheeses, especially blue cheese or a mature cheddar. For dessert, try pairing it with dark chocolate cake or a rich sticky toffee pudding to enhance the ale's caramel and coffee undertones. Whether enjoyed with a meal or savoured on its own, Bouchart X is a perfect choice for those seeking depth and complexity in their beer.
Bottle Size:
330ml
Ingredients:
Water, WHEAT, BARLEY, Hops and Yeast.
Volume:
10% ABV
Shelf Life
Minimum 1 month