Black Damnation VIII – S.H.I.T. from De Struise Brouwers merges two powerhouse beers: the dark Russian Imperial Stout Black Albert and the hoppy IPA Elliot Brew. Aged in bourbon barrels, this black & tan hybrid reaches 13% ABV and defies easy categorisation.

The nose carries roasted malt, chocolate and coffee notes, layered with bourbon warmth and herbal character. Tasting reveals dark toffee and cocoa, balanced against resinous pine and grapefruit hop bitterness. The finish is bittersweet, with lingering bourbon warmth and spice. Full-bodied with fine carbonation, it walks a deliberate line between stout richness and IPA aggression.

This is uncompromising craft beer: bold, complex and unafraid of contradiction.