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February 2010
 Our apologies for the lack of new material here for so long, but our chief beer correspondent has been very busy tripping to Asia and Europe, conscientiously testing liquids for inclusion here, but has not had time to go to print. Therefore, I have decided to fill the breach with a review of a relative newcomer on the import scene-Baltica 4, from St Petersburg. The brewery is a post cold-war establishment, now part owned by Carlsberg and Scottish and Newcastle breweries.
This is nominally a 'dark lager' according to a translation of the label, which is written, of course in the Cyrillic alphabet. I find that description most misleading. It is more like a light sweet brown ale, or close to some of the Bavarian darker 'Boch' beers. It is a very satisfying drink, well balanced and malty, although on the sweet side, as there is obviously considerable caramel in the mix. It brews out to 5.6% alcohol, so it should not be taken lightly. It is possibly a trifle over carbonated, and could be smoother on the finish. The beer is a dark amber colour with reddish/orange tones-possibly from the caramel. I would normally suggest serving this at 15-17ºC, but its balance needs a little chill, say 12-15ºC for best results, and to keep the carbonation under control.
In summary, a welcome addition to Dan Murphy's selection, at a very reasonable price ( about A$3.80 per 500ml bottle). Anyway, give it a try, something a little unusual and certainly value for money.
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