The famous German smoked beer that I want to talk about today is Schlenkerla Smokebeer. This beer hails from the UNESCO world heritage city of Bamberg, a place known for its rich brewing traditions and unique beer styles. Schlenkerla Smokebeer is often hailed as THE original smoked beer, and for good reason.
Now, when I say smoked beer, I don't mean a beer that has been flavored with smoked malts or ingredients. I mean a beer that has literally been smoked, giving it a distinctive and intense smoky flavor that is unlike anything else you've ever tasted.
The story behind Schlenkerla Smokebeer is fascinating. It all started back in the 14th century when the malting process for beer involved drying malted barley over open flames. This resulted in a smoky flavor that was present in all beers at the time. However, as technology advanced and new malting techniques were developed, the smoky flavor started to disappear from most beers.
But in Bamberg, the tradition of making smoky beers never died. The Schlenkerla brewery has been producing their famous Smokebeer since the 17th century, using the same traditional methods and recipes that have been passed down through generations.
So, how does Schlenkerla Smokebeer taste? Well, imagine sitting around a campfire, surrounded by the smoky aroma of burning wood. That's the kind of experience you can expect when you take your first sip of this beer. The smokiness is front and center, dominating the palate and lingering long after each sip. It's a bold and assertive flavor that is not for the faint of heart.
But don't let the smokiness fool you, Schlenkerla Smokebeer is not overpowering or harsh. It is surprisingly well-balanced, with a smooth and malty backbone that complements the smoky notes perfectly. The beer has a medium body and a moderate carbonation, making it incredibly drinkable despite its intense flavor profile.
I remember the first time I tried Schlenkerla Smokebeer. I was visiting Bamberg with some friends, and we decided to stop by the Schlenkerla brewery for a tasting. As soon as I took my first sip, I was transported to a cozy cabin in the woods, sitting by a roaring fire. It was a truly unique and memorable experience, one that I will never forget.
Schlenkerla Smokebeer is a beer that demands attention and appreciation. It's not the kind of beer that you can mindlessly sip while watching TV or chatting with friends. It's a beer that deserves to be savored and contemplated, a beer that tells a story and takes you on a journey.
If you're a fan of bold and adventurous flavors, I highly recommend giving Schlenkerla Smokebeer a try. It's a beer that will challenge your taste buds and open your mind to a whole new world of possibilities. So, next time you find yourself in Bamberg, make sure to seek out this iconic beer and experience the magic for yourself.