Põhjala — Dark Times Sherry & Rye Whiskey BA

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

A decadent dual-barrel expression from Põhjala’s Cellar Series, pouring jet black with a dense mocha crown. The PX Sherry barrels lend opulent layers of plum, raisin and dark cherry compote, while Rye Whiskey casks contribute spicy oak, vanilla and a gentle whiskey warmth. Underneath, the base imperial stout delivers waves of roasted malt, dark chocolate, espresso and toffee, all wrapped in a syrupy, full-bodied texture. Sips finish long and luxurious, with lingering notes of fig, leather and charred oak. A contemplative northern stout built for slow, cold evenings.

Food Pairing

Pair with a dense flourless chocolate torte topped with sherry-soaked raisins to mirror the barrel character and amplify the dark fruit notes. Alternatively, serve alongside a wedge of aged blue cheese such as Stilton with walnuts and dark honey, where the salty richness contrasts beautifully with the stout’s roasted depth and whiskey warmth.

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.