As it relates to beer, there are few beers around the country that can be appreciated by women and men alike. Avery Mephistopheles is one of those beers, with its intimidating label and demonic name. Or maybe the beer - like the dark lord himself – tricks you into enjoying its company, before lulling you to sleep. It makes no difference because the ninth edition of Avery's Mephistopheles is almost on the shelves throughout the country.

Spawned on a cold day in 2005

First brewed in 2005, Mephistopheles was the third installment of the Demons of Ale series. After creating The Beast Grand Cru and Samael’s Oak-Aged Ale, Adam Avery decided he wanted the third demon to be a massive stout unlike any other. One of the most distinguishing ingredients is the beer’s Westmalle Belgian yeast strain, which produces layers of esters and phenols that create much of the beer’s complex flavor. The grist bill is focused mainly on roasted and black malts making it dark and rich. There is also a small amount of Special B, a specialty malt, added for a touch of raisin-like sweetness. The result is a massive and complex stout with notes of vine-ripened grapes, anise, bitter chocolate and an espresso-like finish.

“For me this is one of the most diverse dessert beers out there,” said Adam Avery, the brewery’s president, CEO and brewmaster.  “It can pair with almost any dessert. It’s perfect for the holidays- a time when we eat tons of food with rich, decadent, and excessive flavors and need a beer that can match up.”

The name Mephistopheles originally appeared in literature as the demon in the German Faust legend. According to the story, Faust was dissatisfied with his life and made a deal with the devil, exchanging his soul for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures. Mephistopheles appears in this legend as a plain-clothed devil, mirroring the massive brew hiding within the 12oz bottle.

Although most of you won't be able to make it, the brewery will be releasing this beer at the taproom on (you guessed it) Friday the 13th.

Look for 12 ounce bottles of Avery Mephistopheles wherever you see Avery's other seasonal offerings. Plus if you can't find it at your nearest bar, you are encouraged to request they purchase a keg.

Cheers

About Avery Brewing Company

Established in 1993, Avery Brewing Company has developed a reputation as being one of the most daring and visionary breweries in the nation.  They are the brewers of Avery IPA, The Maharaja Imperial IPA, White Rascal Belgian Wheat Ale, Mephistopheles' Stout and eighteen other year-round and seasonal beers.  Please go to www.averybrewing.com for more information on Avery beers.