Red Rock Black Bier
Red Rock Brewing Company

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

one of the better 4% drafts at red rock. pours a semitransparent smokey black color with a dim amber glow when held to the light. only a very small off white head sits on top. smells a bit smokey, not quite rauchbier smokey, but it gives a nice rich character to the aroma. also dark german malts permeate in the smell. flavor is roasty but light in body for the color of the beer. malt driven for sure, but well balanced to the degree that the finish is quick and bitter. feel is a little undercarbonated, but ive run into that a lot in schwarzbiers for some reason. the low abv works with this one as its a very sessionable pint. quite enjoyable with a wide variety of menu items, especially the woodfired pizzas.

edit: recipe has evolved i think. a recent growler fill proved to be much darker and richer, almost not even lagered, carbonated to high heaven. still yummy, but different than i remember from a couple of years ago!

A bottle left over after GABF judging and given to me as a reward for my volunteer efforts. Pours finger of light brown head over a pitch liquid with brown edgings when held to light. Smells dry roasty with caramel and a bit of cream. Sour cherry-like from black malt and a bit of nut. The head settled to a thin creamy layer, reminiscent of what I'd expect to see in an oatmeal stout.

Tastes dry roasty, sun-baked nougat, with a soothing creaminess. Strong earthy hop flavor that makes it to the finish and modest grassy hop bitterness that lingers in the aftertaste. Light in the mouth and finishes dry. Medium carbonation. May be the most drinkable schwartzbier I've ever had.

Pours a nice black color, nice carbonation, nice one-finger plus light tan head, with lots of nice sticky lacing to follow. The nose is malty, with some chocolate notes, and caramel. The taste is sweet, malty, slightly roast/nutty note, very light chocolate, and caramel. Medium body. Drinkable, this is a very tasty brew.