We spent two days in lovely Düsseldorf recently and had the opportunity to sample Altbier from four breweries. It was a tremendous experience to try these beers in a side-by-side fashion. All were terrific and the separation between them was a razor-thin margin.
Brauerei Kürzer is one of the newer breweries in town, but their quality is top-shelf.
Tasting notes:
Dark amber color. Big and malty, full of complex flavors. Caramel malt is obviously a big player. Creamy mouthfeel, easy to drink a lot of this beer. Slight hop bitterness rounds things out.
Rating: 5.00
Hausbrauerei Zum Schlüssel has a large restaurant, along with an area exclusive for beer drinkers.
Tasting notes:
Amber appearance. Medium-bodied, with some notes of caramel malt. Bitterness level not aggressive but features prominently in aftertaste. Poured from an oak barrel at the bar.
Rating: 4.25
We visited Uerige after a long walk along the river and it was a refreshing experience to sip Altbier in their huge outdoor seating space.
Tasting notes:
Amber appearance. Medium-bodied, nice and malty. Caramel notes are prominent. Hop bitterness provides a nice bite in the finish.
Rating: 4.50
We found Füchschen after a recommendation from the bartender at our hotel and the beer did not disappoint.
Tasting notes:
Amber, copper appearance. Big, bold, robust malty character. Caramel malts are a big player here. Hop bitterness correctly balanced within the recipe. Lingers slightly in aftertaste.
Rating: 4.75
Olbermann Brauerei is located in the old town. They feature a cozy taproom with outdoor seating and offer a full bar menu.
Tasting notes:
Dark amber appearance. Big, sweet, malty, as expected. Light level of hop bitterness to round things out. Excellent example of style, an extra infusion of caramel malt would elevate this beer.
Rating: 4.25