As an Imperial Baltic Porter, Öö represents a beer style that may not be the most widespread but has certainly earned a dedicated following among craft beer enthusiasts. Brewed by Põhjala, Estonia’s most renowned craft brewery, Öö (which means “Night” in Estonian) is a flagship example of the brewery’s commitment to creating bold and complex beers. Founded in 2011, Põhjala quickly gained international acclaim for their innovative takes on traditional beer styles, particularly dark and barrel-aged ales.
The Baltic Porter style has its origins in the 18th century when the robust English porters of the time were exported to the Baltic region. Local breweries began crafting their own versions, often influenced by lager brewing techniques, resulting in a unique hybrid style. Baltic Porters are known for their smooth, clean fermentation profile, higher alcohol content, and rich malt complexity.
Öö embodies these characteristics beautifully, with a deep, velvety body and intense flavors of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and dried fruits. Hints of caramel and licorice add layers of sweetness, balanced by a subtle bitterness and a warming finish.