Põhjala — Chocolat Porter Estonian

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

Chocolat Porter pours an opaque obsidian black beneath a tight mocha head, releasing aromas of dark chocolate, roasted malt and a whisper of vanilla. The palate is creamy and smooth, layering bittersweet cocoa over notes of coffee, toasted caramel and a touch of honey sweetness. A silky lactose-like body softens the roast, lending a dessert-like richness without heaviness. Subtle vanilla warmth lingers alongside lightly burnt grain on the finish, while the porter’s gentle bitterness keeps everything balanced. A quintessentially Põhjala expression of indulgent northern porter craft.

Food Pairing

Pair with a flourless dark chocolate torte or chocolate truffles, where the beer’s cocoa and vanilla notes amplify the dessert’s richness. Alternatively, try it alongside slow-braised short ribs or a smoky barbecue brisket; the roasted malt and creamy body complement charred, caramelized meats beautifully.

About Põhjala Brewery

Põhjala Brewery was founded in 2011 in Tallinn, Estonia, by four beer enthusiasts who were later joined by head brewer Chris Pilkington. The brewery’s name translates to “northern realm” in Estonian, reflecting its deep connection to the Nordic region and the forests of Estonia. Põhjala has established itself as the largest craft brewery in the Baltic states, distinguished by its particular focus on porters, barrel ageing, and the incorporation of indigenous Estonian forest ingredients into its brewing process.

The brewery’s first beer, Öö Imperial Baltic Porter, was contract-brewed before the company opened its original facility in Tallinn’s Nõmme district in April 2014. Following rapid growth, Põhjala invested nearly 4.9 million euros in 2018 to relocate to a state-of-the-art brewery in the Noblessner area, featuring a capacity of 1,200 hectolitres per month and an extensive taproom with 24 taps. Põhjala holds the distinction of being the only Baltic brewery to appear in Ratebeer’s prestigious “top 100” list of world breweries, cementing its reputation as a leading force in European craft beer.