Schwarzbier, or "black beer," is a German dark lager beer. It is opaque, black color and a full chocolatey flavor.

Simiilar in flavor to British Stouts or Porters, it is crisper, due to the use of lager yeast and lower fermentation temperatures.

The roots of Schwarzbier lies in Thuringia and Saxony; the oldest known Schwarzbier is Braunschweiger Mumme ("Brunswick Mum") brewed since the Middle Ages.

In Germany, it is often served with dark, chunky breads with cream cheese. It also pairs well with marinated meats like brisket and is an excellent companion to sauerbraten.

Modern examples of the style include Samuel Adams Black Lager, Shiner Bohemian Black Lager and Saranac Black Forest.

If you're feeling medievil, take home a growler and make yourself ...

The Bismarck.

Named for the favorite drink of the “Iron Chancellor,” Otto Von Bismark, this potent potable is 50% schwarzbier and 50% champagne and must be served in a beer stein.

Prost!

Black Bike Bier

Style Guidelines: Schwarzbier (German for "black beer"), brewed by Matt Boehm with Scott Francis and Angelo Signorino.

Rotation Schedule: Limited run, off-off brew

Food Pairings: Mildred's Sauerkraut Balls, our new grilled Bone-In Pork Chop, Brewpub Pot Roast. Wonderful with Upside-Down Apple Pie. Goes wonderfully with watermelon, of all things!

Body: medium

Color: Ebony brown

Grain: British lager, black; American Munich

Bittering Hops: American Apalt, Hallertau and Vanguard

Finishing Hops: German Perle and American Vanguard

Dry Hops: American Crystal

Original Gravity: 1.067

IBUs (estimate):16.59

Alcohol By Volume: 6.7%

First Tapped: June 14, 2009 at our 14th annual Afternoon with the Brewers

Barley's Brewing Company Ale House No. 1xx 467 North High Street Columbus OH 43215