Põhjala Virvatuli

Name: Põhjala Virvatuli
Brand: Beer
SKU: 632dd9e21603daf899a4a7ff
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 4.06 (171 reviews)

Other Styles 13 º 35 IBU

Põhjala

This Imperial Gruit presents a profound sensory journey through Estonian forests and spirit-laden oak. The aroma is a thick tapestry of botanical Vermouth—offering wormwood and sage—entwined with the peaty, smoky depths of Scotch Whisky barrels. A rich malt backbone yields notes of dark honey and toffee, supporting the complex, earthy bitterness of traditional Estonian herbs. On the palate, the 13% ABV provides a luxurious warmth, amplifying layers of dried fruit and herbal spice. This is a bold, evocative marriage of ancient gruit traditions and modern barrel-aging, finishing with a lingering, resinous, and spirituous complexity.

Appearance. Deep mahogany to near-opaque dark brown. A thin, tan-colored head shows moderate retention, leaving oily legs on the glass. Clarity is clear but visually dense due to the high gravity.

Aroma. High intensity. A complex blend of herbal botanicals including wormwood, rosemary, and forest floor. Dominant spirit notes of smoky Scotch peat and vinous Vermouth. Malt brings deep caramel, toasted bread, and dark fruit esters like fig and plum.

Taste. Initial rich sweetness of toffee and treacle, quickly met by a multifaceted herbal bitterness. The Scotch Whisky influence provides peat smoke and vanilla oak, while the Vermouth barrels add a sophisticated botanical layer. Low hop character allows the medicinal and spicy Estonian herbs to lead. Finishes long, warm, and moderately sweet with a resinous herbal aftertaste.

Mouthfeel. Full and viscous body with a creamy texture. Carbonation is low to moderate. Pronounced but smooth alcohol warmth from the 13% ABV. Very low astringency despite the heavy herb and barrel influence.

Sensory Profile.