Best Feature: sweet malt and coffee aroma

Monteith's Hearty Black Beer is originally from New Zealand form a brewery which puts out several interesting beers.  The Hearty Black Beer poured a very dark brown with hints of ruby redness.  The thick head was a lovely tan colour and lingered for some time.  The nose was fairly sweet roasted malts with subtle burnt coffee notes in the background.  The mouthfeel was surprisingly light for such a dark beer with above average carbonation.  The flavour was distinctly roasted with a burnt finish.  A nice complex flavour combined with a lighter mouthfeel means a great dark beer for pairing with some tasty meat like a rack of lamb.

(4 out of 5)

Best Features: dark roasted flavours

Monteith's Crisp and Smooth Black Beer is made with a blend of 5 malts that give it a distinct flavour and aroma. The pour created a very dark beer in the glass with a nice tan head but a lighter body than stouts or porters. The aroma was coffee, toffee, and distinct roasted characteristics. On the tongue, the beer was definitely crisp and light. I would definitely put this beer in the "dark lager" category. Smooth and crisp (as the name suggests) but also full flavoured with a nice dark roasted coffee and espresso finish. Try black and tan with a full hearty meal; cajun chicken, roast beef and gravy, spicy curry sauce or hickory BBQ (or smoked BBQ) chicken, game or beef.

Beer Fact: Monteith's is not yet available in Canada but look for it to be hitting the shelves early next year with Monteith's New Zealand Export Lager and hopefully the Black Beer to follow.

(4 out of 5)