Põhjala — Strudel Stout Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout Apple Cinnamon Estonia

Technical Details

Tasting Profile

Strudel Stout pours jet black with a dense mocha crown, releasing aromas of warm baked apple, cinnamon sugar and toasted pastry. The barrel-aged base delivers layers of dark chocolate, vanilla and roasted malt, woven with caramel sweetness and a gentle bourbon-like warmth. Stewed apple and orchard fruit echo the strudel inspiration, while cinnamon spice lingers across a velvety, dessert-rich body. Hints of marshmallow, coffee and buttery crust round out the finish, creating an indulgent imperial stout that drinks like a slice of Estonian apple strudel served warm with cream.

Food Pairing

Pair with a slice of warm apple strudel topped with vanilla bean ice cream, allowing the cinnamon and orchard fruit notes to harmonize. Alternatively, serve alongside a mature aged Gouda or salted caramel cheesecake, where the cheese’s nutty depth and the dessert’s richness amplify the stout’s chocolate, vanilla and barrel-aged sweetness.

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.