Shortly after enjoying my first Schwarzbier via a Sam Adams Black Lager, I jumped at the opportunity to give this one a try also.  Though I didn’t like it quite as much, it was still a beer that I would drink again.  I have not had any of that style since this one, but it seems that the balance of flavors and mouthfeel is something that suites my palate.  It is probably over-simplifying things to say that it is a lighter version of a Porter (both in flavor and body), but that is really the best way that I can describe it.  Certainly the style is worth a try if that sounds appealing to you.

Brewery: Cervejaria Sul Brasileira (Brazil)

Name: Xingu (Black Beer)

Style: Schwarzbier

ABV: 4.7%

Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge and served in a pilsner glass.

Aroma: Somewhat neutral malt aroma (no roasted, burnt, etc.) with a slightly clean yeasty nose.

Appearance: Very dark brown with a red highlight.  Three finger light brown head that slowly dissipates with a trail.  Clear with many bubbles visible along the glass.

Flavor: Light, very clean maltiness with (perhaps) a small hint of roasted flavor.  Very low hop bitterness and slightly sweet at the finish.  Finishes clean with no lingering flavors.

Mouthfeel: Medium to light body with fairly high carbonation.  Very smooth and crisp.

Overall Impressions: Incredibly refreshing and drinks like a standard lager (appearance deceiving).  Balanced flavors that I would enjoy again.

Grade: B

Cervejaria Sul Brasileira - Xingu

If only to prove to a certain commenter on this site (ahem, Rob, ahem) that I still enjoy Boston Beer Company products, today is the first of what will likely be many reviews of their beer.  Schwarzbier (black beer) was completely foreign to me before I tried Sam Adams’ version.  It made a good enough impression for me to try another (Xingu) shortly thereafter.  It was definitely a beer where the appearance made me expect something different than what the flavor turned out to be.

It was one of my early evaluations and isn’t as thorough as future ones turned out to be, but it does get the point across.

Brewery: Boston Beer Company (Boston, Massachusetts)

Name: Black Lager

Style: Schwarzbier

ABV: 4.9%

Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge and served in a pilsner glass.

Aroma: Roasted malt aroma that is somewhat sweet.  Very low amount of hops.

Appearance: Dark brown with red/ruby undertones.  Incredible café au lait head that quickly dissipates to half and leaves a heavy trail.  Clear with many bubbles on perimeter of glass.

Flavor: Clean, smooth, slightly sweet malt flavor.  Slight bit of hops noticeable.  Roasted coffee-like flavor at finish.

Mouthfeel: Medium body with some noticeable carbonation.  Very smooth.

Overall Impressions: Well balanced flavors overall.  Not as heavy as expected from appearance (looking like a porter or stout).  Very enjoyable (drinks like a good lager) and I would certainly enjoy multiple.

Grade: A-

Boston Beer Company - Black Lager