De Proef Long of Tooth Ale (Surly Collaboration)

De Proef/Surly Brewmaster's  Collaboration  (Brewed and Bottled by DeProef Brouwerij, Lochristi, Belgium, Product of Belgium) Long of Tooth, 10% Alc by Vol.
What is it? A Belgian interpretation of an English Old Ale with cacao nibs added, for extra Belgian-ness.

Interesting color on this one: somewhere between cherry red and brown, not quite burgundy, but getting there. A slim ring of toasted tan foam rests above.

Aroma: stirringly complex. Dark fruit tones ring in first, some cherry, date, raisin notes, with cocoa right behind. Mellow, cool and promising.

Taste: Bright, brash and impressive entry on the palate. Low hop bitterness, this is a malty thing with an impressive array of flavors at play in the mouth. Caramel and toffee malt flavors swim with cocoa, raisins and more. All flavors are beautifully integrated, and it all hangs in a beautiful balance. Medium-bodied. Long, malty finish.

This one is never too sweet, never too full, not too much of anything, but packed full of plenty. Traces of a Dubbel at times, reminiscent of a strong dark ale, but completely it's own thing.

Let's read the label, shall we? "On March 31, 2014, the collaborative minds of Surly's Head Brewer Todd Haug and DeProef's BrewMaster Dirk Noudts brewed this one of a kind ale. Inspired by English Old Ales and Belgian chocolate they sat down and, over different tasting sessions, hammered out the "best" way to handle their vision.
The result is Long of Tooth Ale, dark gold in color with a complex grain bill, rife with notes of toffee, caramel, dried-fruit, cocoa, oaky-vanilla and finishing with classic Belgian character that only Brett can produce.
Suggested pairings include aged cheeses, grilled or roasted game, chocolate-caramel desserts or enjoy it all by itself!
Cheers from Minneapolis and Lochristi!
Todd & Dirk"

I paired it with ice cream, chocolate-caramel ice cream, mmm, mmm, good.

One caveat: it's a bit expensive, with the 750 ml bottle retailing for $17 -18, more than I usually pay. Is it worth it, though? Yes.