Black in the USSR

◎ Appearance

Pitch black in the glass with minimal light transmission, this beer presents a dense, creamy tan head that settles into fine lacing around the glass. The carbonation is restrained, creating a soft mousse rather than aggressive bubbles, which suits the full-bodied character of the style.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with deeply roasted dark malts and cocoa powder, followed by subtle notes of dark fruit and a whisper of coffee. A restrained hop bitterness underscores the profile without dominance, allowing the malt complexity to develop on the nose.

◐ Taste

The palate opens with bittersweet chocolate and roasted grain, building toward a bold, assertive bitterness in the mid-palate that reaches 80 IBU. The 9.5% alcohol provides warmth and slight boozy character without harshness, while the malt backbone remains smooth and creamy throughout, balancing the intensity.

◑ Finish

The finish is long and dry, with lingering roast and a persistent bitter edge that fades gradually over several minutes. A slight coffee note emerges in the aftertaste, leaving the palate clean but marked.