Japanese-Style Black Lager
Occidental Brewing Co.

 

didnt even know they did a black one of these, i loved the pale one, and was stoked to see this, shared the can with my wife, should have gotten more than one! it looks porter-esque in the glass, with a nice near black color to it, not a ton of body, and a short but only slowly fading off white head, looks nice, approachable for a dark beer, and well carbonated. the nose is somewhat understated to me, a little starchy, roasty, and with a coffee hint, but also slightly herbal, a sake vibe, and an obvious lager crispness, maybe a hint of smoke, but not as robust to me as its dark appearance would suggest. the flavor is awesome, dry cocoa, charcoal from the dark grain, and less german than a lot of these, less the schwarzbier from the grain side, more a dry earthy rice thing to me, less middle sweetness, less european breadiness to the malt, drier ferment. the cleanness is astounding, the aftertaste is delicious, and i like the bitterness they allow. this is as drinkable as the pale one, insanely enough, so well made and refined, and real nuanced and distinctive for the drinker careful enough to give it some consideration. i have long been high on these guys now, but their innovation continues to impress me as much as their classics. low key one of the best breweries in the northwest for my money. everything about this is great.

Can from Market of Choice.

Black with a brown head with good retention and lacing. The nose is soft and roasty, with a grainy bitterness and faint hop character. Light toasted bread notes. The palate opens light, roasty, with a mildly bitter grain, a little dark fruit and toasted bread character. The mouthfeel transitions from smooth to bone dry finish that's a bit watery. Solid stuff.

16oz can from Brewers Haven. Black pour, foamy beige head. Aroma is roasty malts, simple. Taste also features dark, roasty malts, pretty much square in schwarzbier territory. Hint of chocolate at the finish, touch of sweetness.