Theobroma is one of Dogfish Head's Ancient Ales. Its limited availability (August only) has kept me waiting for a whole year... until last weekend!On its menu, Dogfish Head describes an ancient Aztec recipe from 1200 BC with cocoa powder, cocoa nibs, honey, chilies, and annatto (tree seeds with a peppery-nutmeg taste). Reading this, I pictured a hoppy brownish ale with lots of bold flavors hitting at once. To my surprise, it was the opposite.
Theobroma is light in color and subtle in taste. Its density is light and translucent; its taste is more alcoholic-y than hoppy; and its finish is nice and bubbly. I could definitely taste the honey, the nutmeg, and the pepper (in that order), but could not place the chillies or the cocoa (perhaps they balance each other out?).
The beer's subtle balance of flavors would pair well with light fare (not meats) and its bubbly finish will refresh a spicy and/or salty palate. I would pair this beer with fish, spicy vegetarian entrees or soups (curried veggies, Thai foods), or salty appetizers or sides (chips, french fries, or nachos).
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