Madame Carle

Imperial Stout — 8.5% ABV — 65 IBU — Chocolate, Cacao Nibs & Coffee

Big and dark by design. Layers of chocolate and roasted cacao nibs build a rich, dessert-like backbone, while coffee adds bitterness and depth that keeps the whole thing from feeling sweet. Heavy, warming, built for slow sipping rather than quick drinking.

Named after the Pré de Madame Carle, the end of the road past Ailefroide and the gateway into the high Écrins — beyond it, only glaciers and the Barre des Écrins, one of the giants of the Alps. Local legend holds that the place is haunted by the spirit of Madame Carle herself, said to wander the plain still. Fitting company for a beer this dark.