Hirsch Die Hopfensau

◎ Appearance

Deep amber to chestnut brown, turbid from natural conditioning — the cloudiness speaks to its unfiltered, cellar-fresh nature. Head formation is compact and tan, clinging to the glass with modest but persistent lacing. Carbonation is moderate and even, appropriate to the Kellerbier tradition.

◌ Aroma

Franconian hop character dominates from the first nose — piny resin and citrus zest cut through a restrained roasted malt backdrop. There is no yeast funk; instead a clean, assertive herbal quality emerges, with hints of dark stone fruit adding subtle depth. The roast is present but does not overwhelm, allowing the hops their say.

◐ Taste

Entry is dry and snappy, with Franconian Edelhopfen taking immediate command over the roasted grain foundation. Mid-palate sustains a piney, citrus-forward bitterness (25 IBU felt on the palate with conviction) balanced by restrained dark malt character — roasted and earthy without heaviness. Finish is bone-dry, the roast lingering as a pleasant backdrop to persistent hop bite.

◑ Finish

Long and composed, the hop bitterness and dry malt tannins fade gradually into a peppery, herbal echo. No sweetness intrudes; the aftertaste remains crisp and uncompromising, a mark of its cellar conditioning.