Sudwerk Brewing - Kodiak

Kodiak pours a dense, inky mahogany to near-black hue, crowned by a creamy tan head that lingers and clings to the glass. The nose is immediately bold and inviting, with layered roast and malt depth: fresh espresso, dark chocolate, and toasted grain are framed by hints of caramel, cocoa powder, and subtle dark fruit. There’s a refined lager-like cleanliness beneath the richness, keeping the aromatics focused rather than cloying, and quietly signaling the beer’s hybrid nature—drawing inspiration from the depth of an imperial stout and the smooth, structured malt character of a strong German lager.

On the palate, Kodiak delivers a full-flavored, polished experience that carries its elevated strength with balance and grace. Roast and chocolate tones lead, supported by notes of brown bread crust, molasses, and a touch of dried cherry and fig. A firm bitterness, derived from both roast and hops, provides lift and structure, ensuring the beer finishes surprisingly nimble for its intensity. The mouthfeel is medium-plus and velvety, with fine carbonation and a warming impression that unfolds slowly without harsh edges. As it warms, Kodiak reveals increasing complexity—more cocoa, nuttiness, and a gentle, lingering roast—rewarding slow sipping and contemplation.

Kodiak’s robust malt profile and substantial ABV make it an excellent candidate for short- to medium-term cellaring. Expect 2–3 years of careful aging to soften the roast, deepen the dark fruit suggestions, and introduce subtle oxidative notes reminiscent of sherry, cocoa, and toasted nuts. Enjoyed fresh, it showcases a more assertive roast and bitterness, ideal for cooler nights and fireside sessions.

For food pairings, lean into dishes with richness and depth. Braised beef short ribs, smoked brisket, herb-crusted lamb, or slow-cooked pork shoulder all stand up beautifully to Kodiak’s roasted malt and warming strength. On the cheese board, reach for aged gouda, smoked cheddar, blue cheese, or an earthy washed rind. For dessert, think flourless chocolate torte, espresso brownies, or salted caramel bread pudding—the beer’s roast and dark chocolate notes will echo and elevate each bite. Whether opened now or after a rest in the cellar, Kodiak is built to be savored.

Sudwerk Brewing in Davis, California was established in 1989 by two German descendants with a mission to deliver the authentic taste of high-quality German lagers. For over 35 years, they’ve been pushing the limits of traditional lager brewing, helping to shape the craft beer industry along the way.

Their brewing approach marries traditional German techniques with contemporary West Coast craft practices. Embracing the meticulous and challenging nature of lager brewing, they find it to be an invigorating endeavor. Their beers feature clean, crisp yeast profiles, bold hop flavors, and robust malt characteristics—all within a lager framework. This isn’t the ordinary lager you might expect. That’s how we came to be familiar with, and fans of, what they were up to in Davis. Their People’s Pilsner is exceptional, having won a total of eight GABF medals, as are their numerous limited releases that tend to sell out as soon as they’re packaged. So many newer brewers don’t quite give these slower-fermenting beers the proper attention required for that clean, crisp lager character. We’ve got a lot of respect for those who do such beers properly.

The Master Brewers Program at the University of California, Davis is basically right next to Sudwerk, and the brewery maintains an interesting symbiotic relationship with the university. UC Davis’ program, one of the premier brewing schools in the country (of which there are, like, a very small handful), actually holds classes just above Sudwerk’s tasting room. And those attending the UC Davis program serve as mentors on the brewery’s pilot system. Best way to keep an operation focused? Have a ton of visiting brewers watching over them.

In 2021, Sudwerk Brewing Co. was honored as Brewer and Brewery of the Year in the 5,001 – 15,000 Barrels category at the Great American Beer Festival, a prestigious competition featuring over 2,000 breweries and nearly 10,000 beers. Over Sudwerk’s 30+ year history, they’ve become one of the most decorated breweries in the region, with recent accolades including back-to-back Gold medals for The People’s Pilsner in 2021 & 2022.

Throughout their history in Davis, CA, they’ve discovered that their community is one of the best things about enjoying a Sudwerk beer. From fundraisers and donations to local events, Sudwerk takes pride in contributing to the effort of bringing people together and supporting those who have stood by them over the years. You can find more info about the brewery, The Dock “playground,” and their restaurant at sudwerkbrew.com.