Newport Storm released Smoke RIng, a smoked porter aged in oak barrels. The beer, crafted from hardwood smoked barley and chocolate malt, is matched with crystal malts and offers a “cherry tartness and a dark chocolate finish,” and an ABV of 7%. Smoke RIng is the first of six new beers Newport Storm Brewery will release this year. “Different barrels give different flavor and aroma profiles to a beer,” says Brewmaster Derek Luke. “And the slightly wild ferment taking place in the barrels used for Smoke RIng is what gives this brew a tart twist.”

Along with Smoke RIng, Newport Storm also released Unknown Variable, an “experimental hop double IPA.” The beer has Munich malts, two row malts, wheat and features experimental #33, #7, equinox and dry-cascade hops. The beer is at 8% ABV. Newport Storm products are distributed via Horizon Beverage Wayne Division. Newport Storm beers are available in Connecticut via Northeast Beverage.