“Doppel” meaning “double,” this style is a bigger and stronger version of the lower-gravity German-style bock beers. Originally made by monks in Munich, the doppelbock beer style is very food-friendly and rich in melanoidins reminiscent of toasted bread. Color is copper to dark brown. Malty sweetness is dominant but should not be cloying. Malt character is more reminiscent of fresh and lightly toasted Munich-style malt, more so than caramel or toffee malt. Dark fruit flavors such as prune and raisin may be present. Doppelbocks are full-bodied, and alcoholic strength is on the higher end.
German-Style Doppelbock
Category: Bocks
Food Pairings
- Pork or Ham
- Strong Cheeses
- German Chocolate Cake
Commercial Examples
- Samuel Adams Double Bock, Boston Beer Co.
- Uber Bock, Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co.
- Consecrator, Bell's Brewery, Inc.
Appearance
Color
Copper to Dark Brown
Clarity
Clear
Carbonation (Visual)
Slow to Medium Rising Bubbles
Flavor/Aroma
Alcohol
Mild to Noticeable
Hop
Hop aroma should be absent. Hop flavor and bitterness are low
Malt
Pronounced aromas and flavors of toasted malted barley. Some caramel and toffee character can contribute to complexity in a secondary role. Dark fruit flavors such as prune and raisin may be present. Malty sweetness is pronounced but should not be cloying. There should be no astringency from roasted malts.
Esters
Prune, Plum, Grape
Phenols
Not common to style
Sensations
Body
Soft
Carbonation
Low to Medium
Finish Length
Medium
Attenuation
Medium - High
Ingredients
Hops
German Noble
Malt
Pilsner, Munich, Vienna, CaraMunich
Water
Varies
Yeast
Lager
