Tweet

 

A vigorous pour into my 25cl tulip glass produces a four-finger thick, darkly tanned head. The beer is a deep, concentrated, murky amber-brown color that shows a clear, red color when held up to the light. The aroma smells of concentrated malt, caramel glazed dark fruit, with lots of toasty grain notes. Specifically aromas of toffee, raisins, lightly roasted grain, toasted whole grain bread, a touch of warming alcohol, a touch of cola, concentrated sweet browned malt and a touch of brandy are noticeable.

Somewhat dry as it first hits the tongue, the texture then gets a bit fizzy and watery before it settles in to a viscous, fairly thick bodied brew that sticks to the palate. The beer does have a chewy, malt sweetness to it as well. It is well carbonated and a bit fizzy, but some vigorous swirling rids it of excess carbonation. Touches of dusty cocoa, a touch of spicy cola, a hint of roast grain bite and lightly burnt toffee attempt to add some complexity to this brew. The finish has a light astringent grain character, a touch of bitter dark malt character and a hint of hop bitterness all of which linger just a bit on the tongue.

A little bit simplistic in the end (towards the sweet side of simplistic), despite showing touches of depth around the edges. Still quite tasty and drinkable, but seems to be lacking a malty complexity and richness that I like in a good Bock.

Served In: Tulip