2C International Dark Lager

Question 1

2C International Dark Lager - Overall Impression

Answer 1

A darker and somewhat sweeter version of international pale lager with a little more body and flavor, but equally restrained in bitterness. The low bitterness leaves the malt as the primary flavor element, and the low hop levels provide very little in the way of balance.

Question 2

2C International Dark Lager - Aroma

Answer 2

Little to no malt aroma; may have a light corn character. Medium-low to no roast and caramel malt aroma. Hop aroma may range from none to light spicy or floral hop presence. While a clean fermentation profile is generally most desirable, low levels of yeast character (such as a light apple fruitiness) are not a fault. A light amount of DMS or corn aroma is not a fault.

Question 3

2C International Dark Lager - Appearance

Answer 3

Deep amber to dark brown with bright clarity and ruby highlights. Foam stand may not be long lasting, and is beige to light tan in color.

Question 4

2C International Dark Lager - Flavor

Answer 4

Low to medium malty sweetness with medium-low to no caramel and/or roasted malt flavors (and may include hints of coffee, molasses or cocoa). Hop flavor ranges from none to low levels, and is typically floral, spicy, or herbal. Low to medium hop bitterness. May have a very light fruitiness. Moderately crisp finish. The balance is typically somewhat malty. Burnt or moderately strong roasted malt flavors are a defect.

Question 5

2C International Dark Lager - Mouthfeel

Answer 5

Light to medium-light body. Smooth with a light creaminess. Medium to high carbonation.

Question 6

2C International Dark Lager - Characteristic Ingredients

Answer 6

Two- or six-row barley, corn, rice, or sugars as adjuncts. Light use of caramel and darker malts. Commercial versions may use coloring agents.

Question 7

2C International Dark Lager - Style Comparison

Answer 7

Less flavor and richness than Munich Dunkel, Schwarzbier, or other dark lagers. Frequently uses adjuncts, as is typical of other International Lagers.

Question 8

2C International Dark Lager - Comments

Answer 8

A broad range of international lagers that are darker than pale, and not assertively bitter and/or roasted.

Question 9

2C International Dark Lager - History

Answer 9

Darker versions of International Pale Lagers often created by the same large, industrial breweries and meant to appeal to a broad audience. Often either a colored or sweetened adaptation of the standard pale industrial lager, or a more broadly accessible (and inexpensive) version of more traditional dark lagers.

Question 10

2C International Dark Lager - Commerical Examples

Answer 10

Baltika #4 Original, Devils Backbone Old Virginia Dark, Dixie Blackened Voodoo, Saint Pauli Girl Dark, San Miguel Dark, Session Black Dark Lager, Shiner Bock

Question 11

2C International Dark Lager - OG

Answer 11

1.044-56

Question 12

2C International Dark Lager - FG

Answer 12

1.008-12

Question 13

2C International Dark Lager - ABV

Answer 13

4.2-6

Question 14

2C International Dark Lager - IBU

Answer 14

8.0-20

Question 15

2C International Dark Lager - SRM

Answer 15

14-22