Rauch & Rye
Moat Mountain Smoke House & Brewing Co.

 

Presentation: Poured from the tap into a pint glass. Nicknamed "the Baconator" at the bar where I got it.

Appearance is medium to dark brown, almost no head to speak of whatsoever. No haze either. Smell is smoke and some light caramel flavor. Very earthy. Taste follows this pattern. I can see how it earned its nickname as the smoke, light malt and earthiness combine to create a taste very similar to bacon. Flavor is not overpowering, and that works well for this beer. Mouthfeel is light to medium bodied and very crisp. Counters well with the flavor profile, which makes the beer seem heavy than it is actually. Drinkability is good. There is not noticable booze and the flavor profile works well enough so I can have a couple. Over time though, it could grow wearisome.

Overall, a nice beer and nice introduction to the style for me. Certainly worth the adventure.

wasn't really sure what this was, but after havin' a few at the brewery i took a growler home.

like a smoky porter but a little less smooth.

not my preferred stle beer, but i would happily drink this often. they don't always have it though. it kinda rotates through.

when it's there i drink at least one, but i probably wouldn't buy a growler again.

Rauch & Rye on tap at Moat Mt Brewery on Oct 4 08.

Beer is a dark brown with reddish hues and a creamy tan colored head. Slightly laced.

Scent is subtly smoky with spicy notes.

Taste is malty with a strong smoked flavor which takes a moment to develop. Spicy rye grain appears next and balances the smoke notes wonderfully. There's a long smoky finish and the smoke and spicy grain flavors trade fours til the bridge.

Mouthfeel is a creamy weighty medium.

Drinkability is quite good for the style.

This is a really well crafted beer. The sturdy rye grain flavors balance the smoked flavors perfectly and yield a meaty, spicey, smoked ham and gouda cheese sandwhich of a brew which is sublime with good BBQ.

Well done Moat!