Old No. 38

◎ Appearance

Deep onyx black with minimal light transmission, presenting a dense and persistent tan head that clings to the glass with notable Schaumhaftung. The body is opaque and full, with fine carbonation evident in a steady stream of bubbles rising through the dark liquid.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with prominent toasted and roasted grain aromas, followed closely by pronounced coffee notes that suggest espresso and dark cocoa. Beneath these dominant roasted characters, subtle hints of dark stone fruit and a faint woody earthiness from the roasted barley provide layered complexity without sharp or astringent edges.

◐ Taste

Entry is smooth and full-bodied, with toasted Malz flavors building immediately on the palate alongside brewed coffee and roasted grain notes. Mid-palate develops a balanced dryness that accentuates the roasted character, while subtle dark fruit and chocolate undertones add roundness; 53 IBU provides firm bitterness without harshness, and the finish remains clean and crisp.

◑ Finish

The aftertaste is moderately long and persistently dry, with lingering roasted grain and coffee notes fading gradually. No sticky sweetness remains; instead, a clean, slightly astringent edge from the roasted barley provides a satisfying and measured close.