Põhjala — Odravein Bourbon BA

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

Põhjala’s Odravein Bourbon BA pours deep mahogany with a rich, brooding aroma of caramel, toffee, and dried fruit. The bourbon barrel imparts assertive vanilla, charred oak, and a gentle bourbon warmth that wraps around the malt-forward base. On the palate, layers of fig, plum, and dark molasses give way to madeira-like sweetness and hints of sherry. The finish is long and warming, balancing oak tannins with treacle, leather, and a whisper of coconut from the staves. A contemplative sipper that rewards patience and a generous pour.

Food Pairing

Pair with aged blue cheeses such as Stilton or Roquefort, where the salty richness cuts through the beer’s sweet, malty depth. Equally compelling alongside a slice of sticky toffee pudding or pecan pie, letting the bourbon-soaked vanilla and dried fruit notes echo the dessert’s caramelized 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.