Sitting at the back pew of a brewery named Back Pew, one might stumble upon a beer intriguingly titled Satyr’s Swill. Despite the mythological connotations, this brew is anything but ancient folklore it’s a contemporary Texasborn bock that has earned a devoted following. Brewed by Back Pew Brewing Company in Porter, TX, Satyr’s Swill delivers a rich, traditional German flavor with a surprising twist. Its name hints at indulgence, yet the beer balances sweetness, strength, and drinkability in a way that has turned casual tasters into loyal fans.
Origins of Satyr’s Swill
Back Pew Brewing Company
The brewery sits in a renovated church, lending its name and branding a playful, spiritual twist. Back Pew (a nod to church seating) embraces a saintsandsinners aesthetic, with Satyr’s Swill aptly representing the latter the indulgent side of their brew lineup.
The Name and Style
Satyr in mythology is halfman, halfgoat creature known for revelry and indulgence. Pair that with Swill a term implying bottomless drinking and you get a beer that suggests temptation. In reality, it’s a bock lager with a deceptive sweetness and higher alcohol content that sneaks up on you.
Tasting Profile and Specs
Satyr’s Swill clocks in at 7.2% ABV with 22 IBU a highergravity beer meant to be flavorful yet approachable. It pours a clear amberbrown with a light tawny head that dissipates quickly.
- Aroma: Breadycaramel malts, subtle sweetness, light alcohol presence.
- Flavor: Starts sweet and malty with caramel notes, finishing slightly sweet with minimal bitterness.
- Mouthfeel: Creamy and smooth, surprisingly light given the strength.
Reviewers often emphasize how sneaky the beer is pleasant and easy to drink until the alcohol kicks in.
Reception and Reviews
Beer enthusiasts generally praise Satyr’s Swill for striking a balance between malt richness and drinkability. It scores around 3.6 to 3.8 out of 5 on review platforms, with comments noting its resemblance to doppelbocks but with a crisper finish.
A Houston beer reviewer described it as what every bock wants to be when it grows up, highlighting its surprising depth and consistent quality. He emphasized how it rivals other wellknown Texas bocks like Shiner or Saint Arnold’s Oktoberfest.
Food Pairings and Occasion
Despite its higher alcohol percentage, this bock pairs well with a variety of foods. Shellfish, sushi, grilled pork, spicy Latin or Southeast Asian cuisines all complement its malt sweetness and understated hop bitterness.
Because it’s drinkable yet potent, Satyr’s Swill fits both casual and festive occasions. It’s popular during Oktoberfest events and works well in laid-back gatherings, especially when paired with flavorful food.
Related Brews: Son of Satyr
Recognizing that some customers wanted the flavor without the alcohol impact, Back Pew introduced Son of Satyr a lowerABV bock (4.5%) that retains the amber malt profile but allows for extended enjoyment without getting too tipsy.
Branding, Art, and Atmosphere
The can and label design play into the satyr imagery and the brewery’s saintsandsinners theme. Horned barrels and dark, moody backgrounds create a sense that this beer might lure you in before revealing its true strength.
The brewery itself embraces the church setting taproom seating is called The Sanctuary, adding a tongueincheek contrast to the indulgent nature of some of its beers.
Why Drink Satyr’s Swill?
- Traditional German bock style: Smooth, malty, and satisfying.
- Approachable yet powerful: Sweet and crisp, with enough alcohol to be bold.
- Locally crafted identity: Built around Houston/Texas pride and creative branding.
- Consistent quality: A reliable representation of craft bock beer in Texas.
For fans of bock or those curious to try something malty and flavorful without heaviness, Satyr’s Swill offers both comfort and depth.
Seasonal Popularity
Though technically offered year-round, Satyr’s Swill is especially popular during fall and Oktoberfest season. Its style aligns with the German bier traditions celebrated in such festivals, and beer enthusiasts anticipate its limited availability each year.
Reports of it going out of stock and its successor release Son of Satyr underscore how fast it sells through on taps and shelves alike.
Satyr’s Swill by Back Pew Brewing Company is more than just a clever name it’s a well-crafted Germanstyle bock with enough sweetness and strength to satisfy, yet enough drinkability to be enjoyed over conversation and food. Its cultural branding, local roots, and reliable taste make it a standout among craft beers in Texas. While the satyr lore may add to the mystique, the beer itself speaks through flavor and quality. For those exploring the world of bocks or hunting for a memorable local brew, Satyr’s Swill promises both charm and depth.