Small Change Night Windows

Night Windows is a porter from Small Change, and the details we hold place it firmly in the dark beer family. No ABV, origin or ingredient list is given here, so what follows describes how porters in this style typically behave. Treat it as a guide rather than a measured profile of this bottle. Expect a deep brown to near-black pour with a tan or beige head. Porters usually lean on roasted malt, with aromas and flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, toast and sometimes a touch of caramel or dried fruit. The body tends to sit at medium, rounder than a pale ale and lighter than most stouts. Bitterness is typically gentle and comes from the roast rather than from hops, and the finish is usually dry to off-dry, with the roast lingering. Carbonation is moderate, which keeps the malt from feeling heavy. Serve it cool rather than ice cold. Around 8 to 12°C lets the chocolate and coffee notes come through, and fridge-cold temperatures mute them. A tulip, nonic pint or tulip-shaped snifter works well, as they hold the head and gather the roasted aromas. No decanting is needed, but pour with a little pressure at first to build a head, and watch for yeast sediment if the beer is bottle-conditioned. At the table, porter suits food with char and sweetness: grilled sausages, smoked brisket, burgers, roasted mushrooms, aged cheddar or gouda, and chocolate or coffee desserts. Beers in this style are generally brewed to drink fresh, so check the bottle for any best-before date and enjoy it within that window instead of cellaring it.