Dark Lager has a bit of an image problem. Put a brown beer in front of someone, and they expect to taste something thick, heavy, and best enjoyed by the fireside. Fortunately, the Mexicans have spent a good part of the last two centuries proving you can make dark beer that defies the eyes.During the late 1800s, German and Austrian brewing traditions found a new home in Mexico. Among them were Vienna and Munich-style lagers, bringing rich, toasted malt character to a country that would become famous for its crisp, refreshing beer. The result was a distinctly Mexican take on dark lager, with beers like Negra Modelo showing that you can have plenty of malt flavour without sacrificing drinkability. That was the inspiration behind Cuervo Nocterno.
Brewed with a base of 2-row barley and a generous helping of Munich malt, Cuervo Nocterno gets its depth from the addition of crystal and chocolate malts. Expect layers of sweet bread, toasted grain, caramel, and the slightest touch of cocoa. We use German Hüll Melon hops for gentle bitterness and a subtle fruity lift, while a clean lager fermentation keeps everything smooth and balanced.
Pouring a deep chestnut brown with ruby highlights, it's a beer that looks considerably heavier than it drinks. Rich malt flavour gives way to a crisp, refreshing finish, leaving you with all the character of a dark beer and the easygoing nature of a lager.
Named for the Chihuahuan raven, Cuervo Nocterno might look a little brooding, but it's surprisingly good company. Perfect alongside something fresh off the grill, or whenever you fancy a beer with a bit more character. A reminder that dark beer doesn't have to be heavy, and certainly doesn't need to wait for the dead of winter.
Now pouring at 70 Main Street, Winooski.