Dark Dog Dunkel Rye
Lucky Labrador Brewing Company

Growler. Dark Dog Dunkel Rye is a smoky winter ale pouring an appealing shade of chestnut with small but sturdy head and lacing. Some caramel malts are in the nose, along with a lactic yeastiness and a tiny sparkle of wintergreen rye. The beer resembles a robust brown ale, with elements of roastiness and nuts. Minty rye adds an intriguing twist and balances well with the darker varnish qualities. Hops are also boosted, but remain firmly in check. A lingering herbal quality wraps up the smoky finish. The flavors do not dazzle individually but the cumulative effect is very impressive. At times, the beer resembles a brown ale, a Scottish ale, an amber ale or a dark bitter. It's another fine effort from Lucky Lab who have aimed for something different and gotten it. Fortunately, the beer drinker reaps the rewards.