The only thing better than beer is beer infused with some of the best chocolates from the Tampa Bay area. Big Storm Brewery and William Dean Chocolatier are joining forces to create a specialty artisan brew. Porter and stout aficionados know that combining flavorful ales and chocolate is a match made in heaven. For those of you who have yet to try this delicious concoction, you are in for a real treat.

Here’s the deal…

This Saturday at 11a.m. on October 28th, Big Storm will unveil their collaboration with William Dean in our Pinellas and Pasco county taprooms. In lieu of a traditional release, we are challenging the people of Tampa Bay to create a name for the artisan brew. Everyone is encouraged to join us at either taproom location to try the beer and get those creative juices flowing. Once you come up with a fitting name, it can be directly submitted to namethebeer@bigstormbrewery.com

We will accept name submissions until November 13th at 10:00a.m. The chosen winner and beer name will be revealed at our Pinellas taproom on Thursday, November 16th. The winner will receive a private 8-person tour of the Pinellas brewery, a commemorative tap handle, a 20-piece box of William Dean chocolates, and a supply of the new brew—named by you, of course! Participants must be at least 21 years old to enter.

If you aren’t already enticed, here is a little teaser of what’s to come. Described as a toffee chocolate stout, the beer was crafted to intrigue the palate and invoke thoughts of chocolate covered toffee. A true work of art made from the finest ingredients, this stout pours black with deep garnet highlights. Flavors of sweet toffee and caramelized sugar pair together with a hint of rich, indulgent chocolate.

“Like most endeavors, it takes some time and experimentation to find the right balance between flavors like chocolate and beer,” said Big Storm’s Head Brewer, Joel Moore. “Sometimes the most fun and challenging part is finding the perfect recipe for a new crafted ale.”

Bill Brown, Founder of William Dean Chocolates was intrigued when the subject first came up to use their product for beer brewing.

“The subtle nuances of chocolate are exciting for me,” said Brown. “While it took several attempts to get this chocolate stout just right, the final product is an excellent example of pairing great flavors together.”