Magic Dragon Obsidian - 4.2%

Magic Dragon Obsidian is a Welsh stout brewed at 4.2% ABV by Magic Dragon Brewing, based at the Plassey in North Wales and generally recognised as the oldest microbrewery in Wales. Obsidian takes its name from the dark volcanic glass it visually echoes, a deep, near-black stout built for depth of flavour without the heavier body or higher strength of an imperial stout, making it an approachable way into the style for drinkers who might otherwise find stout intimidating.

Magic Dragon Brewing has a long history in Welsh brewing, and the current operation took on new direction in 2017 when Richard moved into the brewery and began producing real ale from its 12-barrel brew plant. Despite its long-standing roots, the brewery has kept a relatively compact, traditional set-up, focusing on classic British beer styles including bitters, milds, and stouts alongside more contemporary additions such as IPA. This traditional approach to brewing, combined with the brewery's status as one of the longest-established in the country, has helped Magic Dragon build a loyal following in pubs across England and Wales as well as at its own taproom in Wrexham.

Obsidian pours dark, close to black, with the classic dense head associated with a well-made stout. The aroma leans on chocolate and coffee notes, characteristic of the roasted malts used in traditional stout brewing, while the palate is clean, carrying those roasted flavours through to a dark, smoky finish. A noticeable, refreshing acidity runs through the beer, helping to carry the roasted and bitter notes without the flavour becoming heavy or cloying, and the beer finishes on a firm, bitter note typical of the style. At 4.2% ABV it sits at a sessionable strength for a stout, making it easier to drink more than one over the course of an evening compared with stronger examples of the style. Obsidian was awarded a star at the Great Taste Awards in 2021, recognition for a beer built on classic technique rather than novelty.

Serve Magic Dragon Obsidian at cellar temperature or lightly chilled in a pint glass or tulip glass to let its roasted aroma develop properly. Its chocolate and coffee character pairs naturally with red meat, game, and barbecued food, as well as with desserts such as chocolate cake or sticky toffee pudding, and it also works well alongside strong cheeses such as a mature cheddar or a blue cheese.

For drinkers looking for a traditional Welsh stout without the weight of an imperial version, Magic Dragon Obsidian offers a well-balanced, sessionable example from one of the country's oldest microbreweries, built on roasted malt character and a clean, bitter finish rather than novelty ingredients or excessive strength.