This is a historic beer, and a smoky, malty specialty of Bamberg, Germany. Essentially a Mӓrzen but brewed with malt that has been smoked over beechwood. The balance between malt and smoke can vary from brewer to brewer.
- ABV 4.8-6.0%
- IBU 20-30
- SRM 12-22
- Glassware Pint Glass or Seidel
- Serving Temp 6-10°C
The beer pours clear a deep amber to brown colour and with a big creamy tan coloured head. Aroma is of smoke and malt. The malt should seem slightly sweet and toasty, and the smoke intensity varies but can be almost barbecue-like if aggressive. If any hops are able to get through the smokescreen, they will carry the floral spicy aromas of the continental tradition. Hop flavour and bitterness are here to provide support only. The front and center flavours are of malt and smoke and the balance between the two can swing in either direction. Some sweetness should be evident but the finish should be dry with the aftertaste reflective of the smoke/malt balance.