Session Black

Beer:Session Black Premium Lager
Brewery: Full Sail Brewing Co, Hood River, Oregon
ABV: 5.4%
Style: European Dark Lager
Sample Medium: Bottle
Size: 11 oz

Impression:I like this lager for a multitude of reasons, not the least of which being pleasant refreshment. But quaff-ability aside, I am thrilled that Session Black single handedly provides an excellent educational opportunity as well as supplying craft newbies a first-rate transition beer. Let me explain. First, this lager really accentuates the difference between “dark” and “heavy” beers and how the two can be mutually exclusive. These two concepts are so frequently misunderstood as interchangeable descriptions in the general public’s mind. Session Black offers a great education opportunity to experience how darker beer ≠ heavy. Second, Session Black, much like the original Session, offers an extremely approachable beer for those who principally drink mass produced light American lagers, but are interested in expanding into other suds. Don’t get me wrong though, I am not saying Session Black is only for rookies. Yes, the dark lager has such a mellow texture and mild well balanced flavors that anyone can enjoy it, and yet there is enough complexity and depth to entice the seasoned connoisseur.

Ok for the actual review. Though dubbed Session Black, the color leans more towards a deep brown. The hopping must be very mild as I don’t detect much. This lager passes gently over the palate with a touch of toasty caramel malt. A hint of well placed sweetness fades into a nice clean finish truly making this a session beer. Definitely try this one and bring it to your next summer gathering. Now I just have figure out which Session to keep on hand. Hey Full Sail how about offering a half/half 12 pack?(6-Session, 6-Session Black)