Who said chocolate only pairs well with wine or belongs strictly at dessert? Let’s break the rules and dive into an unexpected, irresistible match: chocolate and beer. Two bold worlds that, when brought together, create a full-on sensory celebration.
Chocolate has deep roots in Latin America. The Mayans and Aztecs revered it as a divine gift, often consumed as a frothy, bitter drink. Today, cacao undergoes fermentation, drying, roasting, and refining — a process that brings out its full aroma, texture, and complexity. When made with 70% or more cacao, chocolate isn’t just richer and less sweet — it’s also loaded with antioxidants. It may boost your mood, sharpen your brain, and even support heart health (in moderation, of course). The purer, the better. That overly processed chocolate with added fats and sugar? Doesn’t count. More than you’d think! Craft beer styles like stout, porter, dubbel, and even some dark sours offer roasted, bitter, fruity, or spiced notes that beautifully echo and contrast the flavors of dark, milk, salty, or even spicy chocolate. Here are a few dreamy pairings to try: Celebrate Chocolate Month with something new. Gather some friends, grab a variety of chocolates and craft beers, and start exploring. No strict rules — just taste, play, and enjoy. The result might surprise you… in the best way.
future beer pro, our WSET L1 and L2 Awards in Beer will open your palate to a world of styles, flavors, and stories behind every pint. Join us and learn to taste, pair, and talk beer like never before.🍺
🍺 Chocolate & Beer: A Dark and Bubbly Love Story 🍫
A little history (and science!) in every bite
So, where does beer come in?
🍫 Dark chocolate + imperial stout = bold and intense
🍫 Caramel chocolate + brown ale = smooth and cozy
🍫 Sea salt chocolate + porter or gose = sweet with a salty twist
🍫 Orange or dried fruit chocolate + Belgian dubbel = elegant and spicedReady to taste the magic?
Want to take your beer knowledge beyond the glass?