Dunkels & Dragons - Karbach Brewing Review

‘Tis the season for seasonals, and so much so for beer. But this holiday season we’re gathering around the table for a long and epic game, and with the perfect companion to join us on this arduous journey.

Karbach brewing’s FUN Series of beers begins with a roll of the dice and an outcome of German-style Dunkel lager. We can’t think of a better lager to take into winter. Considered the original ‘Munich style’ lager, the Dunkel is rich and malty with a strong backbone to keep the hearty traveler going through the hard times.

This German mainstay from Karbach comes in at 5.5% ABV and 15 IBU, and though our experience with Dunkel lagers is limited (but growing), we’re expecting something with a round and roasted malt flavor, but also a lager that maintains its crisp, clean finish and is approachable as anything.

beer stein and beer can

While our experience with Dunkels may be limited, we’re eager to expand it, so let’s get after it.

First Impressions:

  • On the Eyes--Dark like a stout but with a little amber shining through when held up to the light. This Dunkel is topped with a beige head that maintains well.

  • On the Nose--Notes of deep and roasted malts with aromas of toasted bread crust and chocolate. Still crisp like a lager but with an exciting depth.

  • On the Palate--The enticing aroma comes through wonderfully with notes of chocolate and a strong toasted flavor akin to pretzels. It has a medium body, a touch of floral hops, and a dry finish. The taste is deep and rich, with very little bitterness, and the roasted malt lingers through the finish but still maintains the lager crispness essential to beers of this style.

Food Pairings: Karbach suggests pairing Dunkels & Dragons with Goblin Grub, Sorcerer Stew, Dragon Eggs, and Dark Forest Salad, but if you can’t find those things, pair it with roasts, smoked meats, sausages, pretzels, or anything hearty that keeps you warm in the winter… sweaters and cloaks included.

Final Thoughts:

While I admit my experience with Dunkels is limited, I can say that this beer tastes very Old-world (in all the right ways) and it expresses a lot of thought and homage from Karbach. The Dunkel is a very old style (Hofbrau has been brewing theirs since 1589!), and it requires a lot of respect—which Karbach has granted it. The aroma and flavor are deep and decadent, and the roasted notes linger through the finish pleasantly, and perfectly for winter. Honestly, it gets me excited to drink more Dunkel-style beers, and I can certainly imagine myself having a tankard of the stuff after a trudge over goblin- and dragon-filled mountains. Try this one while you can.


Cheers!

Mr. Brew

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