Hancock Black Lager

◎ Appearance

Dark copper hue fills the glass with substantial clarity and a fine, persistent head that leaves delicate lacing along the rim. The color derives from the use of lager malt rather than pilsner malt, creating a deeper tone while maintaining good translucence. Carbonation is moderate and well-integrated.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with pronounced caramel and sweet malt character, underpinned by subtle roasted notes that emerge as the beer warms. A clean, restrained hop presence provides mild herbal balance without dominating. The extended 90-day cold maturation has developed a smooth, refined character free from sharp yeast phenolics.

◐ Taste

Caramel malt sweetness opens the palate with a fuller, more substantial body than a typical pilsner, followed by a very pleasant moderate bitterness that builds gradually through the mid-palate. Bread and malt flavors provide structural support, while the 25 IBU bitterness remains refined rather than aggressive. The interplay between sweetness and hop character creates satisfying balance.

◑ Finish

The finish is smooth and clean, with residual caramel sweetness lingering gently beneath the pleasant bitterness. Aftertaste remains dry and malt-forward, with no harshness or excessive astringency.