Dark Hops

◎ Appearance

Deep black with garnet highlights at the rim when held to light. The head is dense and persistent, with fine Schaumhaftung that clings to the glass in fine lace. Carbonation is moderate and well-integrated, giving the beer a composed, deliberate presence.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with assertive Zeus hop character—resinous, slightly herbal—layered against roasted barley and a touch of coffee. In youth the aroma is pungent and forward; time softens this edge, bringing cocoa and subtle citrus notes into the midground. No sweetness; the roast dominates without harshness.

◐ Taste

Entry is bold and dry, with Maris Otter malts providing structure beneath aggressive bitterness. The mid-palate holds coffee and roasted grain, with an astringent edge from the roast that sharpens the 60 IBU bitterness rather than masking it. Saaz hops add a subtle herbal thread. At 8.5% ABV, the alcohol sits firmly but does not dominate.

◑ Finish

The finish is long and gripping, with roasted grain and hop bitterness lingering through the aftertaste. Over time in the cellar, this edge mellows and the beer settles into a more composed, porter-like finale.