Matt Brewing Company - Saranac Black Forest Black Beer

Saranac’s Black Forest is a nod to their founder’s homeland in the Black Forest region of Germany. Brewed as a Bavarian-style black lager, known as schwarzbier, Black Forest pours a very deep, dark brown with reddish highlights and a robust cap of light brown foam. Look for notes of rich caramel and toasty bread in the aroma, with a touch of Hallertauer noble hops to provide some classic Bavarian character including a fruity – almost lemony – note backed up by earthy and lightly spicy tones. These notes can all be found in the flavor too; the bready, toasty component is quite prominent, backed by plenty of caramel and a moderate balancing hop bitterness which comes through with some herbal spiciness. Schwarzbiers are known for their balance and drinkability, and Black Forest is no exception as it satisfies the palate while beckoning another sip with a lingering toasty note and a touch of hop bitterness hanging on in the finish. The brewery recommends pairing with Münster cheese, hearty & spicy foods, and sausage or Mexican chorizo dishes, to which we’d add grilled chicken dishes, or even a chicken mole. Prost!

The Matt Brewing Company is not only a brewery, it’s an institution. This is one of the most industry-respected, accomplished, award-winning breweries in the country, with a heritage dating back to the 19th century—exceedingly rare in the world of U.S. craft-brewed beer. Francis Xavier Matt arrived in the States in 1878 (only 13 years after the end of the American Civil War, and just shortly after the nation's 100th birthday). The man put in several years of work gaining brewing experience at the already established Bierbaur Brewery. Originally from the Black Forest region of Germany, "F.X.," as he liked to be called, settled in the sparsely populated Adirondacks of New York, where in 1888 he founded what is today one of the oldest breweries in the United States (and the oldest in New York state).

Today, the name of this family-based brewing operation honors their continued commitment to tradition and pride. Matt Brewing Company has survived numerous world-altering events, including two World Wars and Prohibition. After the days of Prohibition had passed, F.X., then 74, was joined by his sons Walter and Frank, and a tradition of family brewing ensued. Under the leadership of the third and fourth generations of the Matt Family (Nick and Fred, respectively), the brewery has earned a reputation as one of the most respected specialty brewers in the country, producing a wide range of distinctive, flavorful beers under the Saranac brand and others. It's been 128 years since F.X. created the first of his brewery's malty treasures and established the legacy that is the Matt brewing tradition. Today, each of their brews is a flavorful testament to time-tested recipes and literally generations of experience. For more information about the brewery and scheduled tours, give them a call at 800-765-6288 or check out their web site at www.saranac.com.