Lervig — Almond Cake Rackhouse

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

Almond Cake Rackhouse pours pitch black with a dense mocha crown, releasing aromas of toasted almond, dark chocolate, and warm bourbon-soaked oak. The palate is decadent and dessert-like, layering marzipan and frangipane sweetness over rich roasted malt, vanilla bean, and swirls of maple. Mid-palate brings caramel, espresso, and a nutty praline character that nods directly to the cake inspiration. Bourbon warmth lifts the finish, weaving oak tannins through cocoa and toasted nut, while a luxurious, full-bodied mouthfeel carries the sweetness into a long, gently boozy farewell.

Food Pairing

Pair with a flourless dark chocolate torte topped with toasted almonds to mirror the beer’s marzipan and cocoa layers. Alternatively, serve alongside a wedge of aged Gorgonzola drizzled with honey, where the cheese’s salty bite cuts the sweetness while complementing the bourbon barrel warmth and roasted malt depth.

About Lervig Aktiebryggeri

Lervig Aktiebryggeri was founded in 2003 in Stavanger, Norway, initially continuing the legacy of Tou beer production with traditional pilsner styles. The brewery underwent a transformative shift in 2010 with the appointment of American head brewer Mike Murphy, pivoting decisively towards craft beer innovation. This strategic change established Lervig as a pioneering force in the Nordic craft beer movement, particularly renowned for their bold imperial stouts and hazy New England IPAs that have captivated enthusiasts across Europe and beyond.

The brewery’s commitment to quality and freshness is evident in their specialized cold-chain distribution partnership, ensuring their hop-forward beers reach consumers in optimal condition. Lervig’s reputation extends well beyond Norway’s borders through prolific collaborations with acclaimed international breweries including Mikkeller, To Øl, Põhjala, Evil Twin, and Beavertown, cementing their status within the global craft beer community. Their dedication to pushing stylistic boundaries earned them recognition on RateBeer’s prestigious Top 100 Brewers in the World list in 2014, confirming Lervig’s position among the elite producers shaping contemporary beer culture.