Simple Things Smoked Rye Porter

◎ Appearance

Deep brown to nearly black in color, characteristic of a traditional porter with an SRM of 28. The pour yields a substantial, tan head with good retention and fine Schaumkleiden that clings to the glass. Clarity is opaque, befitting the dark roasted grain bill.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with earthy beechwood smoke, layered beneath cocoa and dark roasted grain notes from the chocolate and brown malts. Rye spice adds a subtle peppery dimension, while the Bamberg smoked malt anchors the profile with its distinctive bacon-like, savory character. No hop aromatics assert themselves; instead, the grain and smoke dominate.

◐ Taste

Smooth chocolate and dry coffee notes take the lead on the palate, offering early sweetness that transitions quickly to roasted grain dryness. The rye contributes a peppery warmth in the mid-palate, while the smoked malt weaves a subtle, smoky earthiness throughout. At 33 IBU, bitterness is moderate and integrates cleanly without dominating the malt-forward character.

◑ Finish

The finish is long and lingering, dominated by peppery notes from the rye that persist well into the aftertaste. Dry roast and a whisper of smoke round out the tail, leaving the palate with a warming, slightly astringent character.