Mighty Squirrel Costume Contest

Costume Contest is a stout from Mighty Squirrel, brewed in the United Kingdom. The listing gives no ABV, IBU or tasting notes, so what follows describes the style as it typically behaves rather than this beer's measured profile. Stouts in this family generally lead with roasted malt: expect dark chocolate, coffee and toasted grain, with a bitterness that comes from roasted barley and hops together rather than from hops alone. The body usually sits between medium and full, with a smooth, slightly creamy mouthfeel and a dry or gently sweet finish depending on how the brewer balances the malt. Given the name, it is reasonable to expect a stout with some playful or seasonal intent. Check the can or bottle label for the exact ABV and any added ingredients such as cocoa, vanilla or lactose, since these change both the sweetness and the best food match. Stouts do their best work against rich or smoky food. Slow-braised beef, sausages, burgers with caramelised onion, smoked cheddar and blue cheese all stand up to the roast character. For dessert, chocolate brownies, flourless chocolate cake or vanilla ice cream work well, and a scoop of ice cream in the glass turns the beer into a float. Oysters are a classic match for dry stouts if the label points that way. Serve it at about 8 to 12°C, which is cool rather than ice cold. Straight from a cold fridge the roasted notes go muted and the beer can taste thin and sharp. Give it ten minutes out of the fridge before pouring. A tulip or snifter concentrates the aroma and suits a stronger or sweeter stout. A nonic pint glass or a standard tumbler is fine for a lighter, drier example. Pour slowly down the side of the glass and finish straight to build a modest tan head.