SociableAles and lagers with moderate strength, medium body and near-perfect balance

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Köstritzer Schwarzbier

Germany, 4.8% alc./vol.
Style: Schwarzbier
Köstrizer brewery was founded way back in 1543, and isn't even considered one of the older breweries in Germany.  It is however, one of the oldest producers of schwarzbier, a style that a lot of beer newbies have trouble wrapping their noodles around.  That's because it pours out pitch black, but doesn't drink at all like a big-bodied stout or porter.  Part of the reason is because it's a lager, not an ale, and so carries a style-defining crispness of character.  The dominent flavours are a mild roastiness and a drying cherry edge.