Pfungstadter Schwarzbier is a Schwarzbier, and was evaluated as a Schwarzbier (2015 Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) Category 8B) offering according to BJCP guidelines. For this style, the main characteristics should be smooth roasted malt with moderate hop bitterness. Pfungstadter Schwarzbier is smooth but missing hop bitterness.
The aroma starts out with a low red cherry toffee cake aroma complimented by clean graham cracker and a touch of warm spicy Mexican vanilla pith. As it warms, a low roasted bread crust character is more prominent in the aroma and flavor. The Schwarzbier is an amber brown color with pale strawberry highlights supporting a creamy persistent tan head.
Flavors include a moderate toasty graham cracker with a light dark caramel character. It finishes dry, crisp, slightly mouthwatering, with a slate-like minerality mixed with lightly cooked raisins. The supporting low hop bitterness produces a very sessionable drink. The mouthfeel is frothy, right on style, but high carbonation slightly bites back.
Impressive freshness, but unfortunately, there is a slight astringency in the finish accentuated by the carbonation. Also, the aromas and flavors lack depth. It is safe but not life changing.