Dunkelbier
The English phrase "dark beer" is translated into German as Dunkelbier.
Dunkelbier refers to a type of beer characterized by its dark brown or black color. When discussing different types of beer, the German word for varieties is Sorten.
What does it mean word for word?
The term is a compound noun formed by joining Dunkel (dark) and Bier (beer).
Which one should you use?
While Dunkelbier is the general term for the type of beer, you might encounter Dunkles in a bar setting. Dunkles is used when you want to order "a dark one" specifically. The most common contrast to Dunkelbier in German beer culture is Helles, which refers to a pale lager.
Did you know?
- If you order a Diesel in a Bavarian beer garden, you are not ordering a fuel-based drink, but a layered mix of Dunkel and Helles.
- Historically, Dunkelbier was the original style of beer in Bavaria, and pale beers like Helles did not become popular until the 19th century.
- A 'Schwarzbier' is a specific style that sounds like 'black beer', but it is actually a type of dark lager that can be much lighter in body than a standard 'Dunkel'.
Examples in context
- Ich möchte gerne ein dunkles Bier, bitte.I would like a dark beer, please.
- Könnten Sie mir ein dunkles Bier empfehlen?Could you recommend a dark beer?
- Haben Sie auch dunkle Biersorten im Angebot?Do you have any dark beer varieties available?
- Gib mir bitte ein dunkles Bier.Give me a dark beer, please.
- Hast du auch dunkle Biersorten?Do you have any dark beer varieties?
- Ich hätte gerne ein dunkles WeizenbierI'd like a dark wheat beer
- Dieses Dunkelbier schmeckt sehr malzig.This dark beer tastes very malty.
- Ich trinke lieber ein Dunkelbier.I prefer drinking a dark beer.
- Ist das Dunkelbier heute frisch gezapft?Is the dark beer on tap fresh today?
Example conversation
Lukas and Julia are ordering drinks at a pub.
- LukasWas möchtest du heute trinken, Julia?What would you like to drink today, Julia?
- JuliaIch hätte gerne ein Dunkelbier.I would like a dark beer.
- LukasGute Wahl, ich nehme auch eines.Good choice, I'll take one too.
- JuliaPerfekt, dann bestellen wir jetzt.Perfect, then let's order now.
