Žitohola

◎ Appearance

Žitohola presents a pale straw-gold hue with exceptional clarity, characteristic of a well-made bottom-fermented lager. The unfiltered nature manifests as fine suspended matter that catches light without obscuring the brilliant color. A fine, persistent head forms and clings to the glass with delicate lacing as the beer is consumed.

◌ Aroma

The nose opens with pronounced spiced-hop character from the brewery's own Kazbek variety, delivering black pepper and gentle herbal notes alongside a subtle citrus lift. Beneath this hop expression lies a soft maltiness that grounds the profile without competing. The unfiltered, unpasteurised nature contributes a slightly grainy, living quality to the aromatic signature.

◐ Taste

Entry is clean and crisp, with immediate hop spice from the Kazbek variety coating the palate with a peppery sensation. Mid-palate reveals a balanced interplay of delicate rye malt sweetness and hop bitterness at 29 IBU, creating complexity without harshness. The finish transitions smoothly from bitter to dry, with the rye adding a faint grainy texture that enhances drinkability.

◑ Finish

The aftertaste is clean and moderately dry, with lingering hop spice and a whisper of citrus that fades gracefully. The modest alcohol (4.5% ABV) and restrained bitterness allow refreshment to prevail, making this a sessionable expression.