Tos Stormy Night

Tos Stormy Night comes as a four-pack of cans from Massachusetts. The listing gives no style, ABV or IBU, so the name is the main clue to what's inside. "Stormy Night" usually points to a dark beer, most often a porter or stout. If this follows that pattern, expect roasted malt notes of coffee, cocoa or toast, a moderate hop bitterness that supports the malt without leading, and a body from medium to full. Treat these as the typical profile for the style rather than a confirmed description of this beer. Beers in this vein are best served cool rather than ice-cold, around 45 to 55°F (7 to 13°C). Pull the cans from the fridge ten to fifteen minutes before opening so the roast and any chocolate character can come through. Pour into a pint glass, a nonic or a tulip-style glass, and give it a gentle pour to build a modest head. Drinking straight from the can works, but a glass releases more aroma. For food, dark roasted beers tend to suit grilled or smoked meats, burgers, sausages, chili and sharp aged cheddar. Their roasted edge also pairs well with chocolate desserts or vanilla ice cream. The cans are easy to pack for a cookout, a campsite or a cold-weather meal.