When it comes to German beer with a bacon flavor, the most famous and widely available option is the amber marzen or Oktoberfest style, known as rauchbier. This style is characterized by its smoky flavor, which can often be likened to the taste of bacon. One of the most renowned breweries producing rauchbier is Schlenkerla, located in Bamberg, Germany.
Schlenkerla's rauchbier is a true masterpiece in the world of smoked beers. The brewery has been producing this unique style since the 17th century, and their expertise in creating a beer that truly tastes like bacon is unmatched. Brewmaster Matthias Trum himself has even stated that he prefers to say “bacon tastes like smoked beer,” emphasizing the strong and distinct flavor profile of their rauchbier.
The brewing process for rauchbier involves using malted barley that has been dried over an open flame, which imparts the smoky aroma and taste to the beer. The smokiness can vary in intensity, with some rauchbiers having a more subtle hint of bacon, while others have a bold and pronounced flavor. The bacon-like character of the beer comes from the beechwood smoke used during the malting process.
While rauchbier is the most common style associated with a bacon flavor, it's worth noting that smoked grains can be added to any style of beer to achieve a similar effect. This opens up a world of possibilities for brewers to experiment and create their own bacon-infused brews. From stouts to porters, and even IPAs, the addition of smoked grains can add a delightful smoky and bacon-like touch to the beer.
Personal experiences with bacon-flavored beers can vary greatly depending on one's taste preferences. Some may find the smoky aroma and taste to be a delightful and unique experience, while others may find it overpowering or not to their liking. It's important to approach these beers with an open mind and a willingness to explore different flavors and styles.
If you're looking for a German beer with a bacon flavor, rauchbier is the way to go. Schlenkerla's rauchbier is an excellent choice, known for its authentic and intense bacon-like taste. However, don't limit yourself to just rauchbier – explore the world of smoked beers and discover the various styles and flavors that can be achieved by incorporating smoked grains into different beer styles. Cheers to the bacony wonders of German beer!