So tonight wasn’t really about the food. Tonight was about the best pint of beer I’ve ever drunk. Tonight was about The Gunmaker’s Pub in Farringdon and its charming and interesting landlord. And also about Ascot Ale’s Anastasia’s Imperial Stout, which clocked in at an impressive 8% ABV. My word, but this was good stuff.

I’m not a major stout or porter drinker, i’m more of a real ale and good wine kind of guy. But this, this was fantastic – all chewy chocolate and coffee notes, with a lot of depth (think beef stew rather than any other drink) and none of the watery, light, bitter notes of your Guinness or other wimpy dark beer. (more…)