Week 45 of 52
Surly Darkness (On Tap)
November 3rd thru 9th
Brewer's Description
This Russian Imperial Stout is a sipper. Problem is that you want to sip it all night. Look for this one to be released when the leaves change color and Halloween is approaching. Brewed with a blend of 8 different malts, oats and candi sugar.
This huge stout reflects Surly's commitment to brewing intensely flavored beers in small batches. Only 25 barrels of this beer were brewed.
10.3% abv 80 IBU
Overall Rating based on 6 reviews
4.92 of 5 stars
Brewery Information
Surly Brewing Company
Brooklyn Center, Minnesota
surlybrewing.com
Interesting Fact
The 3500 barrel production number is the limit for breweries or brewpubs to get a license to sell growlers. The 750 ML bottles are a variation of growlers. So, next year we can not sell Darkness at the brewery. Read more.
Reviews | Learn More About the Brew52 Reviewers | Previous Beer | Next Beer
mattberan says Best beer ever
November 10th, 2008
This beer is amazing. Like a ton of bricks balanced on a tightrope. Love it.
flashmcduff says bigness
November 8th, 2008
Had it at the Muddy Pig – where the glassware always smells a little like their detergent. Hey at least it’s clean!
Everything seems to be in balance with this one. It’s easy to drink and packs a punch; a huge beer in palatable form. I can’t think of anything bad about my Darkness experience. I may have expected a more extreme beer from Surly, but was even more pleased to get a great beer that was good all-around.
Kristin says Darkness Reigns!
November 7th, 2008
Surly’s best, in my opinion, but definitely not a session beer. One is good for me. I think it’s still available at Cafe Twenty-Eight, and for sure it’s on tap at Common Roots Cafe…
I love this stuff. ‘Nuff said.
Eric says Hell yeah
November 6th, 2008
This years’ release of Darkness is much more accessible and sessionable than 07 in my opinion (altho I liked last years better I think), while still packing a wallop of malts and hops to enjoy. Chilled and in a pint glass it was incredible; I can only imagine how good it will be at 55 degrees and in a nice tulip glass. Proper. Grab a glass while supplies last.
Erica says My Perfect Beer
November 6th, 2008
Sweet, dark, a little creamy, smooth finish, strong as hell. “Intensely flavored” is damn right. PERFECT.
Rett says There’s still some left!
November 6th, 2008
If you haven’t had a chance to try Surly Darkness, it’s still on tap at a few bars. 8th Street Grill downtown Minneapolis and Blue Nile on Franklin to name a couple. Check the list on Surly’s site for more, but be sure to call ahead as many have run out.

