Black Flannel Academy

Lichtenhainer

wild-fermented

A sour, smoked, lower-gravity historical central European wheat beer, with a complex yet refreshing character due to high attenuation and carbonation, along with low bitterness and moderate sourness.

Color

3 – 6 SRM

Bitterness

5 – 12 IBU

Alcohol

3.5 – 4.7% ABV

Sweetness

The smoke and acidity provide balance rather than hops, creating a dry finish with acidity and smoke in the aftertaste.

Balance

The smoke and acidity provide balance rather than hops, creating a dry finish with acidity and smoke in the aftertaste.

History

Historical Development

Originating in Lichtenhain, in Thuringen (central Germany). Height of popularity was towards the end of the 1800s, similar to pre-1840 Berliner Weisse.

Modern Evolution

Classic characteristics

Appearance

Tall off-white head, rocky and persistent. Yellow to gold color. Fair clarity, may be somewhat hazy.

Aroma

Moderately strong fresh smoky aroma. Light hints of sourness. Medium-low fruity esters, possibly apples or lemons. The smoke character dominates, dry rather than greasy, with no hop presence.

Flavor

Moderately strong fruity flavor, possibly lemons or apples, paired with moderate intensity, clean lactic tartness. The smoke and acidity provide balance rather than hops, creating a dry finish with acidity and smoke in the aftertaste.

Mouthfeel

Tingly acidity. High carbonation. Medium to medium-light body.

Flavor Profile Deep Dive

Service notes

BJCP designation

Overall Impression: A sour, smoked, lower-gravity historical central European wheat beer, with a complex yet refreshing character due to high attenuation and carbonation, along with low bitterness and moderate sourness.

Comments: Served young. Smoke and sour is an unusual combination that can be an acquired taste.

Style Comparison: Related to Gose, Grodziskie, and Berliner Weisse – has elements of all of them but with its own unique balance; sour and smoke is not found in any of the other styles.

Vital Statistics: OG: 1.032 – 1.040 | FG: 1.004 – 1.008 | IBUs: 5 – 12 | SRM: 3 – 6 | ABV: 3.5 – 4.7%

Source: BJCP 2021 Style Guidelines, bjcp.org, retrieved 2026-09-13. Vital statistics are as published; descriptive text is condensed from the published guideline.

Brewers Association designation

Style comparison

Similar Styles

Related to Gose, Grodziskie, and Berliner Weisse – has elements of all of them but with its own unique balance; sour and smoke is not found in any of the other styles.

Ingredients

Grain Bill

Smoked barley malt, wheat malt, Lactobacillus, top-fermenting yeast. Grists vary, but the wheat would typically be 30-50%.