I wasn’t really planning on having a fourth beer this evening, but it’s my wife’s birthday, and she wanted to have another. So, how could I say no. After the Torrent Black IPA, I thought I’d try another beer from the Brewmaster’s Selections. I really, really enjoyed the Brauerei Heller Bamberg – Hecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Marzen I had during my Oktoberfest Challenge, so I thought I’d give Destihl’s Rauchbier a try.
Numbers: 5.8% ABV, 25 IBUs, 18 SRM
Appearance & Aroma: The color was deep brown, and amber/red colors could be seen through it when held up to the light. There was a little bit of a tan ring of bubbles around the edge of the glass, but almost no head. There was a very, very obvious smoky aroma to it, reminding me a bit of the BBQ smokiness from New Holland’s Charkoota Rye Smoked Doppelbock.
Taste & Feel: The body was fairly light, and there was a bit of a carbonation crispness to it up front. The middle was a bit like roasted/burnt caramel, and then a big smoky flavor came through in the finish. The smoky flavor carried well into the aftertaste.
Food Pairing: As you’d probably guess, this would go best with BBQ. The burnt caramel and smoky flavors would probably compliment some wet BBQ ribs very nicely.
Overall Impression: I wish I would have had a plate of ribs in front of me while I had this beer. Unfortunately, I didn’t have anything to accompany it, and the big smoky flavor was a bit too much for me. The flavors were very bold, and I think I would have really enjoyed this beer if I had something with it. Overall, this was a pretty good beer, but make sure it accompanies some BBQ or other food that can match its flavorfulness.
My Rating: 
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