Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchweizen

◎ Appearance

A naturally cloudy golden wheat beer with a fine, persistent white head. The haze derives from the yeast suspension typical of bottle-fermented Hefeweizen. Carbonation is moderate and even, lending a soft visual presence to the glass.

◌ Aroma

Smoke leads on the nose, arriving as a gentle beech-wood character rather than aggressive campfire. Beneath lies a classic Hefeweizen layer of clove and banana esters from the top-fermenting yeast, woven together with soft wheat and malt undertones. The overall impression is restrained and well-balanced.

◐ Taste

Smoke flavour dominates the palate with a subtle, dry maltiness that grounds the beer without heaviness. The characteristic phenolic spice and fruit notes of the weizen yeast appear mid-palate, complementing rather than fighting the smoked barley. Bitterness remains low and integrated, allowing the interplay of smoke and yeast to shine.

◑ Finish

The finish is clean and moderately short, with smoke lingering gently on the palate. A refreshing, slightly peppery dryness persists without astringency.