Best Doppelbock Beer
Doppelbock is a stronger, maltier version of the Bock style of beer. It originated in Germany, but is now brewed in other countries. Some people think the name, meaning "double bock," means twice as strong as traditional bock beer, but it originally just meant twice as good. A true doppelbock should be at least 7% alcohol by volume, compared to a traditional bock, which is between 6 and 7%.
You'll sometimes hear doppelbock referred to as liquid bread, since it's made from grains and provides a significant amount of calories. The style first gained popularity when brewed by monks in Munich, Germany. The legend is that they were not permitted solid food during the season of Lent, so they developed this strong, malty beer to give them the energy to do their normal work.
No doppelbocks should evidence any hop flavor or aroma. They get all their character simply from lots of malt.
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Why it's best:
This was the first, original Doppelbock beer, and most of us still consider it the role model, centuries later. It's even still brewed near the same spot in Munich, Germany. Salvator has a unique malty aroma that's characteristically German, but more interesting than most. T...read full review
Why it's a best pick:
This is a great example of an American brewer practically duplicating the original German style. Double Bock is now widely available throughout the country, and it strongly reminds me of Paulaner Salvator.
Since you're quite likely to find Samuel Adams Double ... read full review
Why it's a best pick:
Optimator's malt flavor is more assertive than Paulaner's version, with almost a slightly burnt character. That's definitely not a bad thing, because it helps you slow down and enjoy it more slowly. You won't find the smoothness of Salvator, but you will find just as much co... read full review
Why it's a best pick:
Celebrator is the one in the bottle with the little white plastic goat hanging around the neck. The beer inside is just as distinctive as the packaging, with a strong malty sweetness. Like most of the Ayinger beers, there is a characteristic aroma and flavor that almost remi... read full review
Why it's a best pick:
Korbinian isn't as easy to find as the others, but is well worth looking for. A truly excellent example of the doppelbock style, it has a beautiful complexity. I find the flavor reminds me of dark pumpernickel bread, with caramel flavors blending into strength. There is also... read full review
