Deka Cherniy Prints (Black Prince)

Formerly brewed at Pivzavod Deka
Style: Dunkel
Velikiy Novgorod, Russia

Serve in Dimpled mug, Lager glass, Stein

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Dark mahogany-brown colour. Grainy aroma with light molasses note and hints of Mexican chocolate. Reasonably full-bodied but somewhat thin flavours...odd. Burnt brown sugar and dates form a basic flavour profile, drowning out adjunct notes. One of the better Russian dark lagers, at least amongst the macros. Not perfect by any means, but enjoyable enough.

Head is initially small, frothy, light brown, mostly diminishing. Body is clear medium to dark brown. Aroma is moderately malty (bread, caramel, grain, cereal), lightly hoppy (flowers). Flavor is moderately sweet, lightly acidic, lightly bitter. Finish is lightly sweet, lightly acidic, moderately bitter, slighty husky. Medium body, watery texture, lively carbonation. Considering where it’s from, this is pretty decent. A bit grainy, industrial-smelling, and on the sweet side, but otherwise inoffensive and nearly pleasant.

Malty aroma with strong smoked notes. Reminds me of Rauchenfelser Steinbrau. Dark red in appearance with a large off-white head that is mostly dissipating. Good visible carbonation. Not much lace. Tastes of oysters. Would probably go well with oysters, although that may be overkill. Unique but slightly off. Still has a certain alluring, ancient quality. While I was drinking it my mind conjured up visions of vikings swilling large mugs of the stuff. Or, maybe it was the 5.9% ABV talking.

Bottled. Red brown, no head and low condition. Fruity port and woody tart nose with a hint of pepperiness developing. Sweet caramel and port in the mouth and a lingering caramel finish balanced out with a roasty dryness.