When it comes to dark beers, one style that often intrigues beer enthusiasts is the black lager. Known for its deep, rich color and smooth, lager-like characteristics, black lagers have a unique identity within the world of beer. But have you ever wondered what this captivating beer style is called? Let’s dive in and explore the various names used to refer to black lagers!
1. Dunkel
In Germany, black lagers are commonly referred to as “dunkel.” The term “dunkel” translates to “dark” in German, perfectly capturing the essence of this beer style. Dunkels typically showcase a beautiful mahogany to dark brown color and offer a well-rounded flavor profile that balances malt sweetness with a touch of bitterness.
2. Bock
Another name you may come across for black lagers in Germany is “bock.” Bocks are a type of strong lager known for their robust maltiness and higher alcohol content. While not all bocks are black, the term can sometimes be used to describe a dark lager with a rich, full-bodied character.
3. Schwarzbier
The most specific and commonly used term for a black lager in Germany is “schwarzbier.” Schwarzbier translates to “black beer” in English, making it a straightforward and descriptive name for this style. Schwarzbiers are revered for their dark, almost opaque appearance and exhibit a delicate balance of malt sweetness and a clean, crisp finish.
4. Tmavé Pivo
Outside of Germany, in the Czech Republic, black lagers are known as “tmavé pivo.” Tmavé pivo means “dark beer” and encompasses a range of lagers that share similar characteristics to schwarzbiers. Tmavé pivo often features a deep brown to black color and a smooth, malty flavor profile.
5. Cerné Pivo
In the Czech Republic, another term you might encounter for black lagers is “cerné pivo.” Cerné pivo translates to “black beer” and serves as an alternative name for tmavé pivo. This name allows Czech-speaking beer enthusiasts to refer to the style using a term they are more familiar with.
6. Dark Lager
While the aforementioned names have their roots in specific regions and cultures, the general term “dark lager” is often used universally to describe this style of beer. The name “dark lager” paints a broad picture of the beer’s appearance without specifying any particular brewing tradition or cultural influence. It is a more generic, catch-all term that encompasses various interpretations of black lagers around the world.
So, whether you refer to it as dunkel, bock, schwarzbier, tmavé pivo, cerné pivo, or simply a dark lager, the captivating black lager style offers beer enthusiasts a taste experience like no other. From Germany to the Czech Republic and beyond, these beers showcase a beautiful balance of maltiness, crispness, and dark hues that are sure to captivate your taste buds.
