Havana Lager

Havana Lager by Concrete Beach Brewery was judged as a Vienna Lager (BJCP Style Category 7A). This beer poured a golden color with orange hues and bright clarity. A tightly formed and generous off-white head of small bubbles sits and lingers on top of the beer. A moderate-low aroma of spicy and floral noble hops is at the forefront. A low bready malt aroma with very slight toasted bread crust quickly follows suit and a clean lager character is evident. On the initial sip a medium (bordering medium-high) bitterness is the first thing perceived by the drinker. A low malt sweetness barely peaks its head through, with a light toasty malt flavor, and is quickly overtaken by the bitterness again which causes the flavor to be balanced towards the bitterness. Medium-low spicy noble style hop flavor, very light citrus, light malt sweetness, low lingering bitterness, and a clean lager character all manifest together and carry over to the finish. This beer has a medium-light body, with medium carbonation, a slight creaminess, and no warmth detected in this beer. Overall, this is an excellent interpretation of a Vienna Lager, albeit a tad more bitter than the style allows which gives it an “American” style interpretation. It is a lovely-drinking, quality, smooth beer of a style that is increasingly hard to find.