Name: 1888 BockBrewer: Leinenkugel's - Chippewa Falls, WI
Style: Bock
Alcohol Content: 5.1%
Review: Beer drinkers come in two forms: those who prefer lagers, and those who prefer ales. I am of the latter. I'm learning though that good beers don't have to be fermented at the top of the barrel. The 1888 is my proof. Thanks goes to my friend Paul who provided my first beer recommendation of the year. This beer has a maroon glow that pours cleanly like a typical lager. It has a very appealing caramel aroma with a semblance of berries and citrus. I enjoy smelling this beer almost as much as I enjoy drinking it. It goes down lagerishly smooth (yes, lagerishly). Because of this, the flavor and texture are not surprising: sweet, smooth, and well developed. The hops add a crispness that prevent the beer from being too cloying (ales rarely cloy, which is why I typically choose them over lagers). It still finishes like a lager, leaving a thick sweet feeling on the tongue. Regardless, I think the flavor is deep and well-balanced enough to make this an excellent winter brew. I don't consider my palate sophisticated enough to confidently proclaim any lager as the best of it's kind, but for now, the 1888 is the top Bock on my list. I recommend pairing this Wisconsin beer the American way - with a Cheeseburger and fries.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend? YES
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