Darwin Brewing Co. Director of Operations Blue Hellenga Talks Llama Mama Milk Stout

We spoke with Darwin Brewing Co. Director of Operations Blue Hellenga about Llama Mama Milk Stout.

BC: Who came up with this beer’s recipe?
I did after I arrived at Darwin in 2019. I tweaked parts of the original recipe that was developed back in 2012.

BC: What’s your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, etc.)?
My favorite aspect of this beer is the layers of it after you take a sip and how the robustness turns into a smooth finish.

BC: Where does this beer’s name come from?
Darwin Brewing Company started as a Latin American gastropub with Peruvian/Incan theme. This was one of the first beers we brewed. The llama is a major symbol in Peru of the Incan Empire.

BC: Is this your “desert island beer?”
It is my go-to dessert beer rather than desert island beer.

BC: Can you describe this beer in 10 words or less?
Full-bodied, smooth, sweet, caramel and coffee.

BC: Do you know a story – or have a personal story – that revolves around this beer?
This beer is an echo of what Darwin Brewing once was and a major symbol of where we are headed. Yet, if you listen closely those echoes can still be heard with every sip.

BC: What’s a good food pairing for this beer?
Roasted duck with grilled veggies and a slice of dark chocolate cake.