Inspired to brew it themselves, brewers in Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and even Germany were making Baltic Porter by the1800s. With the advent and growing popularity of cold fermentation and lagering in the mid-1800s, most of these brewers ultimately switched to using lager yeast. Today, brewing Baltic Porters using lager yeast and cold fermentation is considered the classic style, although some examples are still warm-fermented.
Baltic Porter ranges in color from a clear deep copper-garnet to opaque deep brown – virtually black. A smooth mouth-feel characteristic of lagers delivers rich, complex malts with roasty, not burnt, notes, as well as chocolate, licorice, caramel and dark fruit flavors. Hints of malt smokiness may show, and hop spicing and bitterness are low and balancing. High alcohol can highlight fruity notes in the beer and bring warmth to the senses. Baltic Porter, whether cold- or warm-fermented, is a quintessential member of the porter family of beer styles.
