Baird Black Velvet Dark Lager

Age and long-distance travel were not kind to this Japanese dark lager generously brought to an Australian gathering by TimE. Like Elvis in Vegas, it was all shook up and its best days were behind. Very fizzy in appearance - almost Coke-like with its heavy carbonation and faint head. The sweet aroma offered Milo choc malts and lemonade spritz. The carbonation was grabby and the body thin. Thin, sweet flavours - powdery dark malts and liquid chocolate. Tim mentioned that the beer doesn’t seem to last well in the bottle, which would explain this. (Bottle courtesy of TimE at Sully’s RB Xmas 07 gathering - thanks to both)

Came across more as a black and tan than anything else. Smooth malty body, very lagerish. Some lingering cappuccino notes at the end. Oddly tasted better in a bottle than on tap, which is a first.

Cola in color with a full, medium sized, tan head. Caramel malts, toasted malts, some cocoa, vanilla, and a bit of dark fruits. Mouth is a bit thin. Flavor is very similar to the aroma, with the toasted coming through a bit stronger. Caramel, coffee, and a little of that vanilla are there as well. Finishes mildly bitter. Easy drinking and quite tasty. I just wish there was more body, but this is another quality output from Baird.