Gordon Biersch Blonde Bock
The weather is cooling, the days shortening and leaves are starting to change colors. It’s the season of rich, malty — and more potent — brews. Gordon Biersch Blonde Bock may be golden in color, but this 7% ABV brew is right in line with the malt-forward beers that I gravitate toward this time of year.
Leading with a good mix of grain and biscuity malt, Blonde Bock delivers a flavorful experience that blossoms as the brew sits in the glass. It needs a little time to breath and open up after the initial pour. I found the beer to be right on par with just about every other light colored bock that I’ve had throughout the years — it’s one that I would certainly enjoy again.
Appearance
As the name suggests, Blonde Bock pours a clear, golden amber with a rocky crown of white foam.
Aroma
Lightly toasted bread, biscuity malt, grain, light spices, soft alcohol, peppery tingle and distant fruits mingle together comfortably.
Taste
The brew has a good flavor, but it’s one that doesn’t really open up until it’s had some time to rest. Even when served at cellar temperature, the brew was a bit slow to develop. Once it does, though, we’re greeted with a lightly syrupy mouthfeel that delivers biscuity malt, a moderate sweetness, a touch of caramel and distant stone fruits to a lasting and lightly warming finish.
Overall
I really liked this beer. It’s right in line with what I expect form the style. Sure it may have had a slow start, but Blonde Bock ended superbly, delivering great flavor and deceptive smoothness for a big beer. This one would be great just about any time of year, but shines nicely in cooler weather.
Rating: 3.5/5
This is a review of a promotional sample.
