After discovering Beer Salted Caramel Stout and Vrigen Rauchbier, a Spanish amber beer, today we’re heading to Estonia to explore Präänik, a Baltic porter from Põhjala.
Präänik – Põhjala Baltic Porter
Põhjala Brewery
Põhjala is undoubtedly one of our favourite breweries of the year. Founded in 2011, this Estonian microbrewery is located in the heart of Tallinn and crafts beers inspired by local heritage, nature and cuisine. The brewery reimagines classic beer styles using original ingredients and is also renowned for its Cellar Series range, which showcases barrel-aged beers.
Originally launched by four brewers and craft beer enthusiasts, the project quickly grew when Chris Pilkington, former head brewer at Brewdog, joined the team. In 2013, they released their first beer, an Imperial Baltic Porter called Öö. This powerful dark beer, with an ABV of 10.5%, features rich roasted, chocolate and coffee notes. At the time, the beers were brewed using other breweries’ facilities, and it wasn’t until 2014 that Põhjala acquired its own premises in the Nõmme district.
Baltic Porter: A Distinctive Beer Style
Similar to an English porter thanks to its malty and roasted profile, Baltic porter stands out for its higher density and alcohol content compared to most other beers. Influenced by Russian Imperial Stout traditions, it is a lagered version that combines brewing techniques from Germany, the Czech Republic and England. This results in a complex beer style with layered flavours.
Expect sweet malt reminiscent of German bocks, notes of raisins and liquorice similar to Old Ale, and rich chocolate, coffee and roasted characteristics typical of stouts and porters. During the 18th and 19th centuries, British breweries exported strong porters and stouts to Baltic Sea ports. To withstand long sea journeys, these beers were brewed stronger and hoppier, which also suited the colder climates of Eastern Europe. Local breweries soon adopted and adapted the style, taking advantage of low fermentation temperatures.
Präänik Baltic Porter
Baltic porter plays a central role in Põhjala’s brewing identity. Their early success with Öö, widely praised and named one of Europe’s best porters in 2019, paved the way for new creations. Präänik continues this tradition as a festive Baltic porter brewed with spices inspired by gingerbread.
In the glass, Präänik reveals a deep mahogany colour topped with a fine beige head. Aromas of toasted gingerbread, caramel and warming spices such as cloves, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper, allspice and cardamom emerge immediately. On the palate, it is rich and smooth, with sweet biscuit malt flavours complemented by caramel, vanilla and toasted pecan notes. Oats add roundness and softness, while hints of red fruit, espresso, milk chocolate and roasted malt create depth. This intense and flavourful beer has low carbonation and finishes with a dry, roasted character.
Food Pairing
Rich and full-bodied, this Baltic porter is best enjoyed at a slightly warmer temperature of 12–16°C in a pint or tulip glass. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, aged Gouda cheese, lemon ice cream or a creamy vanilla cheesecake.
ALCOHOL ABUSE IS DANGEROUS FOR YOUR HEALTH. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.
