Dunkel is a traditional German dark lager celebrated for its smooth, malt-forward character and centuries-old heritage. Despite its deep, wood-toned hue, this style remains approachable and endlessly drinkable—perfect for cool evenings in East Tennessee, where the Smokies cast long shadows and autumn air carries a crisp edge.
The word Dunkel means “dark” in German and traces its roots to the earliest lagers brewed with Munich malt. These malts gave the beer its signature depth and gentle sweetness. By the 1800s, advances in brewing technology—especially precise control over fermentation and temperature—allowed brewers to refine the style, creating variations that showcased richer flavors and more nuanced aromas.
Our interpretation of this classic is a collaboration with Hutton & Smith Brewing out of Chattanooga. Brewing beer with locally sourced barley is a focus of our program. For this beer, we chose 100% Weyermann malts from Germany to honor Bavarian tradition. Founded in 1879, Weyermann is revered worldwide for its commitment to quality, sourcing the finest barley and using traditional malting techniques to ensure exceptional flavor.
A Dark Lager in Full Voice
This Dunkel pours a deep, polished brown with ruby highlights, releasing aromas of crusty bread, toasted malt, and caramelized sugar. Each sip reveals layers of toffee, hazelnut, and bittersweet cocoa, balanced by a trio of noble hops.
A touch of Columbus at the start of the boil adds firm bitterness, while Tettnanger contributes delicate herbal notes with soft spice and floral character. Hallertau Mittelfrüh lends a mild earthy tone and gentle floral accents, and Saaz adds a hint of peppery spice. Together, these hops create harmony—floral, earthy, and lightly spicy accents that elevate the Dunkel’s malt richness without overshadowing its smooth, comforting depth.
A Malt Symphony
The malt bill is a symphony of tradition. Barke Pilsner provides a clean backbone, while Dark Munich adds bready warmth and whispers of honey sweetness. Caramunich layers caramel and toffee, complemented by Special W for nutty richness and hints of dried fruit. Melanoidin amplifies complexity with toasted character, and Chocolate Wheat rounds out the darker tones without adding too much roast.
Fireside Reflections
As autumn settles over the Smokies and the ridges glow in fading light, this Dunkel becomes a fireside companion—warming, reflective, and full of quiet depth. Brewed for slow sips and shared stories, it lingers like the last light slipping behind the mountain: soft, enduring, and unforgettable.
Pair it with grilled meats, hearty stews, or chocolate desserts for a perfect harmony of flavors. Its smoothness comes from traditional methods and extended lagering—a patient process that rewards with every sip. Good things truly come to those who wait.
The Details
Style: German-Style Dunkel
ABV: 5.2%
IBU: 27
Collaboration: Hutton & Smith Brewing Company
Malts: 100% Weyermann (Germany)
Hops: Columbus, Tettnanger, Hallertau Mittelfrüh, Saaz
Availability
Available in Peaceful Side taprooms, restaurants, and through Cherokee Distributing. Ask your favorite local spot to bring it in—on draft and in 4-packs for the cooler months ahead.