As the fruit trees blossom, and a slight sweetness hits the air, the fresh produce season is soon to be upon us! However, there is one thing that has been waiting in hibernation for the past few months getting ready for it's Spring birth. That is Bock Beer. To simply state that Bock Beer is Spring Beer would be an understatement. It has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages and has changed as much as the European map has over the years. For those interested in the history, some good reading can be found here: http://www.epicurean.com/articles/pleasures-of-bock.html .
The above article will not only give you the basic history, but also describe the different styles of Bock Beer. My purpose here is just to provide another reason to celebrate Spring. Notwithstanding the catastrophes occurring throughout the world, and a heartfelt prayer goes out to the people of Japan, but Spring is a time of re-birth. An awakening from the dormancy of winter, tossing aside the mittens and ear muffs and allowing a smile to re-affirm it's natural contour on our hardened faces. As adults, we could use a little guiding light as we make our way out of this natural slumber.
To this end, I give you some of my favorite examples of this Spring Nectar. My choices center around what's known as Doppelbock, or Double Bock. These are very hearty, full-bodied beers that range in color from light brown to very dark. I like these because I am a fan of the strong, malty sweetness ever so lightly balanced with hops. That puts these beers more in line with Belgian Beers that I consider to be my favorite. If you ever see "ator" at the end of the name of a German beer, chances are it is a Dopplebock. My two favorites here at the Paulaner Salavator and Spaten Optimator.
Here in the US, it seems that this style of beer comes in the form of seasonal Winter Brews. For example, the Ramstein Winter Wheat is a Dopplebock, and one that I had the pleasure of lending a hand in the brewing process a couple years back http://www.ramsteinbeer.com/pages/beers/beers_seasonals.html. Unfortunately, as mentioned, this is their Winter Beer. However their Classic Wheat is made year-round and is a beautifully crafted beer as well. Another example is the Weeping Radish Farm Brewery, their Christmas Bier is a Doppelbock http://www.weepingradish.com/christmas_beer.htm. If you want to consider a year-round beer made by Weeping Radish, they have their award-winning Black Radish.
Please refer to the first article provided with the history if you want to know more about the different styles. As I've said in previous blogs, this is my blog, and I'll talk about what I like! Let us suffice to say, as I stare out my window at blue skies and colorful trees, that Spring is here! Why are you still reading? Get out there and celebrate!
FG
