Another beer review?
Why, yes. Actually, this one has been in the fridge for a while. I had some on our guys' weekend a few weeks ago that a friend brought and he brought me an extra bottle in exchange for some scope rings I had sitting in a box.
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| Smoky Goodness |
Not a bad trade, I would say. Well, it's not as over-powering as you would think. There is definitely a smoke to the aroma as well as the taste. The label says it uses traditional German malt and hops (lending a definite caramel malt note) as well as "Bamberg smoked malt". I will say it is not a beer that is for sitting and drinking by itself. The smoke, while not overwhelming, is definitely a little much without something to cut it. Recommendations for a pairing are anything from the grill and especially a good sausage or bratwurst. A steak would be fantastic. We actually had it with some nachos and it was great. It is definitely a darker beer, but the color is deceptive. It is not heavy at all.
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| Into the pint of darkness |
Pulling off a good smoked porter isn't an easy thing. I haven't liked them in the past because I've had some pretty terrible attempts at them. However, this one and one other I've tried have pulled it off well. If you want something a little different with a nice grilled meal of meat or seafood, it's worth a try. On the other hand, it really would go well with just about anything not too mild in flavor.
Enjoy.
Interesting, I don't think I've ever had a 'smoked' beer... :-)
ReplyDeleteIt's definitely something you have to go into open-minded. It definitely has its place, but not every day. I'm glad I approached smoke beers with my usual theory: Don't make a decision on something from one bad experience. The first smoked beer I had was flat nasty. However, this one and another by Mikkeller called "Chipotle Porter" are great. The Mikkeller has a little spicy bite at the end that is just great. It was originally to be called "Texas Ranger", but the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission put the kabosh on that from what I heard. But that's a story for another time.
ReplyDeleteYUM!!!
ReplyDeleteYes, Flier, most definitely yes.
ReplyDeletesorry, 45er buddy, i can't help you with this at all - i absolutely hate beer! the hubby has had me try a bunch of different beers - none as exotic as yours - but i just don't like it. i like me a nice, small glass of australian shiraz. now that's a good thing to sip! teehee.
ReplyDeleteI totally understand, kymber. I have a friend that cannot stomach beer at all. She's tried, but can't do it. No reason to force it if you don't enjoy it. I do like a good wine, myself.
ReplyDeleteThat's definitely on the "must try" list.
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family.
Brigid - It's a different one, that's for sure. If you can find the Mikkeller Chipotle Porter, I think it's better. Best wishes to you on Thanksgiving and I know you're going to have a spectacular feast with family.
ReplyDelete45er - just wanted to let you know that we are celebrating American Thanksgiving today and tomorrow. we have so much to be thankful for this year! one of the things that we are thankful for this year is all of our internet friends, both old and new. and i wanted you to know that you and yours are in our thoughts, prayers and thanks!
ReplyDeletehave a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving Day, my new friend!
(your wife is Canadian. oh you lucky dawg!)
your friends,
kymber and jamie
I had time while the Turkey is cooking and the girls are napping to peruse your site and realized you're from the Great White North. I love spending Canadian Thanksgiving (our Columbus Day) up there. It's such a beautiful country.
ReplyDeleteHappy Turkey Day to you as well.