Rauchbier
Description
An elegant, malty German amber lager with a balanced, complementary beechwood smoke character. Toasty-rich malt in aroma and flavor, restrained bitterness, low to high smoke.
Aroma
Moderate beechwood smoke character balanced with rich toasty malt aroma. Smoke is complementary, not harsh or overpowering. Low to moderate herbal hops. Clean lager fermentation.
Appearance
Amber to dark amber, 12-22 SRM. Clear. Off-white to tan head with good retention. Color often deeper than unsmoked Märzen.
Flavor
Balanced beechwood smoke and rich toasty malt flavors. Smoke is a complement, not dominant. Moderate hop bitterness. Dry finish. Smoke lingers pleasantly in aftertaste.
Mouthfeel
Medium body with moderate carbonation. Smooth and round. Smoke character does not add harshness.
History
A traditional specialty of the Franconian city of Bamberg, Germany, dating back centuries when beechwood-smoked malt was the norm before modern kilning. Schlenkerla and Spezial are the primary remaining producers. Represents a living link to pre-industrial brewing when all malt was kilned over wood fires.
Commercial Examples
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Rauchbier beer?
- Rauchbier (BJCP 6B) — a German smoked amber lager with beechwood smoke character. Style guide and specs.
- What is the ABV of Rauchbier?
- Rauchbier has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.8-6.0%.
- How bitter is Rauchbier beer?
- Rauchbier measures 20-30 IBU (International Bitterness Units).
- What are some examples of Rauchbier beers?
- Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Märzen, Spezial Rauchbier, Aecht Schlenkerla Urbock
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