New Holland Charkoota Rye

New Holland Charkoota Rye Smoked Dopplebock Lager
19° Plato, Alc. 7.75% by Vol.
Overall: B+

Only the second of two smoked beers I have tried, I've been contemplating Charkoota for a while, hesitant to purchase it as it seems rather intense, as the name implies.

Serving type: 22 oz. bottle, about $7.00
Appearance: Very dark amber with a thing, quickly dissipating head.

Smell: Strong smoke scent up front with wood scents and a slightly sweet trail almost like caramel - a smoked meat fragrance is also apparent.

Taste: The smoke flavor is evident and immediate. The smokiness is strong, far stronger than the other smoked beer I've had, but not overbearing. The initial punch is accompanied with complex flavors as the rye and roasted malt characters follow. A slightly sweet tinge is evident in this beer, but the finish seems to be more of a less sweetened, almost bitter molasses.

Mouth: Medium carbonation - don't expect a head to last half a glass. Charkoota feels smooth, and its complex and heavy flavors definitely coat your mouth and throat, leaving a lasting effect.

Drinkability/Overall - I really enjoyed this beer and is the best if only the second smoked beer I've had. Most people I assume would characterize this beer as astringent and far too powerful in the palate, but I enjoy its blends of flavors, especially the rye, malt, and molasses tones. This beer would probably be best enjoyed paired with greatly prepared meals, opposed to other beers before or after. With the smoked flavor, smoked meats of course would be a great selection, though being a vegetarian I opted to accompany this lager with a few slices of dark pumpernickel bread. Perhaps if I have it again, a reuben sandwich would be a good selection. Given my penchant for trying new beers, although I enjoyed this, I will probably try others before I purchase this again.