Pure Project Brewing Phoenix Nox | Imperial Stout San Diego

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

Phoenix Nox from Pure Project Brewing is a bold imperial stout from San Diego, California, pouring a deep jet-black with dark ruby edges and a tan, persistent head that clings to the glass with understated elegance. On the nose, the beer opens with waves of roasted dark malt, bittersweet baker’s chocolate, espresso, and a subtle undercurrent of dark dried fruit — think plum and fig — alongside a whisper of vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied and luxuriously thick, delivering a rich interplay of dark cocoa, charred malt, molasses, and light licorice.

The bitterness is firm but well-integrated, never aggressive, and the sweetness is measured, lending balance rather than cloying weight. The finish is long and warming, with a slow fade of roasted grain and dark chocolate. Phoenix Nox rewards patience: best enjoyed at cellar temperature, it holds genuine aging potential, allowing the darker fruit and malt complexity to deepen over time. A serious, contemplative stout from one of Southern California’s most artistically driven breweries.

Food Pairing

Pure Project Brewing Phoenix Nox imperial stout pairs magnificently with a rich dark chocolate fondant cake — the roasted malt mirrors the bittersweet cocoa while the beer’s body stands up to the density of the dessert. Equally compelling alongside a slow-braised short rib glazed with red wine and black pepper reduction, where the beer’s dark fruit and charred malt notes amplify the savory depth of the dish.

Pure Project Brewing Phoenix Nox Imperial Stout