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Dark Beers

Dark beers are rich, bold, and packed with deep, complex flavours. From smooth stouts to robust porters, these beers offer notes of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, caramel, and even smoky undertones. At Vibrant Forest, we craft dark beers that are full of character, whether you prefer something silky and sessionable or a high-ABV brew with layers of intensity.

Whether you’re after a classic stout, a rich porter, or an experimental dark ale, our selection is brewed to deliver depth, balance, and unforgettable flavour in every sip.

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Black Forest – Porter
Black Forest – Porter
4.9% | Dark | 440ML

Black Forest - Porter

A rich, thick London-style porter with dark chocolate, espresso, roasted coffee, and a bittersweet, fruity finish.
From £4.1
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Faith In Patience – BA Barley Wine
Faith In Patience – BA Barley Wine
7% | Dark | 440ML

Faith In Patience - BA Barley Wine

Aged in bourbon barrels, this malty barley wine boasts cinder toffee, peppery spice, oak smokiness, and smooth complexity.
From £7
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Primal Grace – Strong Ale // Port Barrel Aged
Primal Grace – Strong Ale // Port Barrel Aged
8.4% | Dark | 440ML

Primal Grace - Strong Ale // Port Barrel Aged

Sweet, fruity and vinous, Primal Grace started life as a Belgian style strong ale Then Aged in Port Barrels.To this, we added another level of intrigue by conditioning this on Cascara before lightly carbonating and packaging.
From £7
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Kick-start – Oat & Coffee Stout
Kick-start – Oat & Coffee Stout
5.7% | Dark | 440ML

Kick-start - Oat & Coffee Stout

A rich, espresso-forward coffee stout with dark malts, oats, and warming chocolate roast for the perfect wake-up.
From £4.25
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dark beer?

Dark beer is a broad category that includes stouts, porters, and other full-bodied beers with deep malt flavours. They range from smooth and chocolatey to rich and smoky, with a colour spectrum from deep amber to jet black.

What do dark beers taste like?

Dark beers often feature flavours of roasted coffee, cocoa, caramel, toffee, and dark fruits. Depending on the style, they can be smooth and creamy or bold and bitter.

What’s the difference between a stout and a porter?

While both are dark and malt-forward, stouts typically have stronger roasted flavours with coffee and chocolate notes, while porters tend to be smoother and slightly sweeter. The lines between the two styles are often blurred, but both are deeply flavourful and satisfying.

What food pairs well with dark beers?

Dark beers complement a wide range of foods. Try them with:

  • Roasted meats and BBQ – The malt richness pairs beautifully with charred flavours.
  • Chocolate desserts – A perfect match for stouts with deep cocoa notes.
  • Strong cheeses – The creaminess of blue cheese or aged cheddar pairs well with a bold dark beer.

Are your dark beers vegan?

Yes! All Vibrant Forest dark beers are 100% vegan-friendly, brewed without lactose or any other animal-derived ingredients.

Where can I buy Vibrant Forest dark beers?

Our dark beers are available in our online shop, at our taprooms, and in select craft beer retailers across the UK. Order online for fresh, flavour-packed dark beers delivered straight to your door.

Are dark beers stronger than other beer styles?

Not always! While some dark beers, like imperial stouts, can be high in alcohol, others, like porters and dark milds, are lower in ABV and designed to be easy-drinking.

Can dark beers be aged?

Yes! Some dark beers, particularly barrel-aged stouts and porters, develop even richer flavours over time. If stored properly, they can take on deeper notes of caramel, oak, and dark fruit.