Jan 12, 2010

Leinenkugel 1888 Bock

You can read about Leinenkugel’s 1888 Bock in more detail, but in summary, is brewed based on a recipe that brewery first used 121 years ago. Not only is this a resurgence of an older brew, but it is also the return of the brewery’s first seasonal released so many years ago.

Appearance

1888 Bock looks good in a glass. It’s got a copper color with a light tan head that’s quite creamy in appearance.

Aroma

The nose is rather subdued, even when poured at cellar temperature. There’s a malty, caramel presence followed by light apple and a small amount of hop bitterness.

Taste

This is a real smooth and well balanced brew. It’s got just the slightest hop bitterness in the semi-dry finish after a rich, roasted malt front. It’s medium bodied with a slight crispness. For a bock, it’s light and refreshing enough for a warm spring day — at only 5.2% ABV, you’ll probably have a couple of them celebrate the thaw of winter.

Overall

I enjoyed this one. It’s probably the best brew I’ve gotten from the company thus far. It’s not over the top in terms of complexity or flavor, instead sticking with a well balanced taste profile for easy drinking and enjoyment. Good lord, that last sentence sounded like a commercial. Anyway, it’s tasty and my wife loved it, so we’ll be be sure to keep an eye out for it on the shelves.

Rating: 3.5/5

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