Best Scandinavian Beer Style Types
This beer style evolved from the British porter, and it was partially influenced by imperial stouts. The beers that fall under this category will typically have high alcohol content, usually between 5.5 and 9.5% ABV, while their color ranges from mahogany red to dark brown.
They are full-bodied and smooth brews with typical malt flavors that are usually complemented by aromas of toast, caramel, licorice, dried fruit, chocolate, and coffee. Baltic porter first appeared when stronger and hoppier versions of British porter were sent to Russia.
THE BEST Baltic Porter Ales
Farmhouse ale is best described as an ancient beer style that was brewed by European farmers who used their grains and hops. These brews were made with techniques that are not used in modern brewing, and because they were brewed in various European regions, the examples are incredibly versatile and include a variety of different sub-styles that are usually very region-specific.
Farmhouse ales were made in places where people cultivated grains, and in the early 20th century, it was a prevalent style throughout northern Europe. These beers were a part of everyday life. In some places, they were prepared and enjoyed on special occasions, and in the regions where grains were plentiful, they were enjoyed on a daily basis.
VARIATIONS OF Farmhouse ale
THE BEST Farmhouse ale Ales
Norwegian farmhouse ale is an example of a traditional farmhouse ale—a versatile style brewed by European farmers. These beers were designed for local consumption. In Norway, they are known as maltøl, which would literally translate as malt beer.
Norwegian brewing tradition is ancient, and though it has changed over time, it retained some of its unique characteristics. The entire category of farmhouse ales is incredibly versatile. The character depends on the region, brewer’s preferences, and style.
VARIATIONS OF Maltøl
Stjørdalsøl is a traditional beer style that falls in the broad category of Norwegian farmhouse ales. It hails from Stjørdal, Trøndelag, one of Norwegian regions that has preserved the tradition of brewing these old farmhouse brews.
Stjørdal now has the largest number of traditional breweries and even features several commercially produced examples. This regional style is very versatile. The final brew varies among breweries and brewers, but most are amber-colored and have a distinctive malty character and smoky notes, ranging from delicate to heavily smoked.
Kornøl is a farmhouse ale from Norway that is classified as raw ale. The beer is mainly associated with Western Norway and the regions Sunnfjord, Nordfjord, and Sunnmøre. The style is not as common as it used to be, but several breweries and enthusiasts preserve this ancient brewing tradition.
Unlike other types of traditional Norwegian beers, Kornøl is not boiled. It is a type of raw ale that is usually brewed with traditional local yeast (kveik) and juniper. The resulting beer is pale and usually cloudy. It is fruity, grainy, and subtly sweet, with a discreet juniper flavor.
Vossaøl is a type of Norwegian farmhouse ale—a traditional beer style that has been brewed for centuries, primarily by farmers who used their grains and hops, along with local yeast. Although this traditional brewing is not as common as it used to be, it is starting to regain popularity.
Unlike other types of local farmhouse ales, Vossaøl is made with unsmoked malt, so it does not have a smoky character. It is often brewed with kveik (traditional yeast), and it is mainly flavored with juniper. The resulting brew is usually clear and dark amber or copper.
Gotlandsdricka is a beer style that originated on the Swedish island of Gotland. The brew was made with local ingredients and traditional techniques, and it is often classified as a type of farmhouse ale—an ancient European style initially made by farmers.
Although these farmhouse beers were once brewed throughout the country, the tradition now mainly continues on Gotland. The ingredients depended on availability, and malt could be made with barley, wheat, rye, or oats. Brewers still usually make their malts and predominantly use juniper sprigs in the production.
Best Scandinavian Beer Style Producers
AWARDS
European Beer Star - Gold
2023
Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2024
BEST Vreta Kloster Bryggeri Beers
Best Scandinavian Beer Styles
AWARDS
Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2024
AWARDS
Concours International de Lyon - Gold
2024
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