Doppelbock

Doppelbock, which translates as "double bock", is a rich and malty German lager that boasts a stronger and more robust character than its traditional Bock counterparts. Historically, this style was developed by Paulaner monks in Munich who used the hearty brew as "liquid bread" to sustain them during fasts. These beers were nourishing enough to help the monks through periods where no solid food was consumed.

In appearance, Doppelbocks are typically deep amber to dark brown in color with a large, creamy, persistent off-white to tan head. They exhibit brilliant clarity due to their lagering process and can showcase beautiful ruby highlights when held up to the light. The alcohol content of these beers can lend them a significant viscosity, occasionally giving them a syrupy mouthfeel. The flavor of Doppelbocks provides an abundance of malt complexity including melanoidins reminiscent of bread crusts along with caramel and chocolate tones depending on the specific malts used. Despite this sweetness, the beer should finish moderately dry, without becoming cloying, thanks largely to the alcohol presence which can range from noticeable to moderate. Hop bitterness is generally low but exists just enough to balance out the malty sweetness without contributing much hop flavor or aroma. The overall experience is one of balanced strength – the powerful warming qualities of alcohol are tempered by rich malt dynamics.

Doppelbocks relate closely to other bocks in terms of being primarily malt-driven lagers with origins in German brewing tradition. However, they are set apart by their increased strength; while Traditional Bocks are considered strong beers themselves, Doppelbocks take this further making them richer and more intense both in flavor and alcoholic content.