When Mr. Mephisto turns up you know its winter! The decisions about which big winter brews to try is a little tough this year because there just seem to be so many seasonal beers; there's almost a case of over-supply, if that is possible. But for those who like full-bodied, robust, malty beers, this is a great time of the year.
Mr. Mephisto's Imperial Stout with its thick, rich flavors is especially well suited for January and February. This beer from Background: Mr. Mesphisto's is a winter seasonal for Lake Louie Brewing that begins to appear in December. Brewery owner and brewmaster Tom Porter named the beer for the host of the horror-movie television program Lenny's Inferno that aired in Madison from the late '60s through the early '80s. Mr. Mephisto's trademark was his tall dark hat, stark white face and solid black goatee. The man who played the character during the last dozen years of its run, Dick Flanigan, has even been seen at the brewery in Arena sipping his namesake beer. Mr. Mephisto Imperial Stout is available in six-packs (~$12). Tasting notes:
Glassware: The snifter allows for sipping and gentle warming of the stout, which will bring out a smooth silkiness and strong malty flavor.
Pairs well with: The dominant maltiness of the imperial stout will go well with venison and lamb. It'll also go nicely with oysters and clams. For a special treat, try a dark chocolate and cherry desert.
Rating: Three Bottle Openers (out of four).
The Consensus: B+ (very good) from Beer Advocate and an 88 from
