Helles Bock

Includes styles: Traditional Bock, Maibock

Recipes:: 1,795
BJCP 2021:: 04C
Era:: Traditional
Origin:: 🇩🇪 Germany
Fermentation:: Bottom
Conditioning:: Lagered
Color:: Pale
Strength:: High
Taste:: Malty

Profile

Helles Bock, also known as Maibock, is a German-origin lager that presents a wonderful balance between malt richness and hop character. This style came to prominence in the southern regions of Germany and is traditionally brewed for consumption in late spring. Its darker cousin is the Dunkles Bock, with the key differentiator being the lighter malt bill avoiding the pronounced dark fruit characters expressed in darker versions. Compared to other pale lagers such as pilsners and Märzens, Helles Bocks are stronger in alcohol content usually ranging from 6-7% ABV while exhibiting a more substantial body due to increased malt use. Both flavor complexity and balance are essential components making it distinctive when placed beside these similar styles.

Helles Bock pours a deep gold to light amber color with remarkable clarity owing to its lagering process. It typically boasts a robust white head that persists, inviting the first sip. In terms of flavor and aromas, it predominantly showcases the complex character of continental malts without roasty or overly caramelized elements – expect sweet, bready notes with a hint of toasty qualities that speak to its higher kilning compared to regular Pilsner malts. Though malt-forward, Helles Bock is not heavy; instead, it achieves a certain delicacy on the palate. There's an underlying floral or spicy hop profile which should be noticeable but not overwhelming; this complements the malt rather than clashes with it.