All About Beer Magazine

Bocks are a specific type of strong lager historically associated with Germany and specifically the town of Einbeck. These beers range in color from pale to deep amber tones, and feature a decided sweetness on the palate. Bock styles are an exposition of malty sweetness that is classically associated with the character and flavor of Bavarian malt. Alcohol levels are quite potent, typically 5-6 percent ABV. Hop aromas are generally low, though hop bitterness can serve as a balancing factor against the malt sweetness. Many of these beers’ names or labels feature some reference to a goat. This is a play on words, in that the word “bock” also refers to a male goat in the German language. Many brewers choose to craft these beers for consumption in the spring (often called Maibock) or winter, when their warmth can be fully appreciated.

Interpreting the 100-point Scale

Consumers can translate the point score to the following quality bands:

Point Range	Quality Band
96-100 points	Platinum
90-95 points	Gold
85-90 points	Silver
80-84 points	Bronze
Less than 80	Not Recommended

Legend

= Brewpub
ABV = Alcohol by volume
Date denotes the date on which the beer was tasted

92 Samuel Adams Longshot Traditional Bock, The Boston Beer Co. (MA). 6.8% ABV (3/10)
Deep copper color. Rich molasses date bread and buttery praline aromas follow through on a round, supple entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium body with excellent depth and balance. Finishes with a nice accented of baked citrus and cocoa.

92 LTD 01, Full Sail Brewing Co. (OR). 6.4% ABV (3/10)
Deep amber copper color. Aromas of dark toasted nut bread and faint dried ham follow through on a round, plush entry to a dryish medium-to-full body with hints of chocolate covered raisins and figs. Finishes with a nice, crisp marriage of roasted nuts and caramelized citrus.

91 Sudworth Bock, Blue Tractor Brewery (MI). 6.7% ABV (10/10)
Dark reddish copper color. Aromas of milk chocolate covered peach and orange peels with a round, frothy fruity medium-full body and caramel apple, roasted nut skin and peppery succotash accented finish. A tasty winter warmer.

91 La Rossa, Birra Moretti (Italy). 7.2% ABV (3/10)
Copper color. Nice aromas of oily peanut butter and ham omelette follow through on a round, supple entry to a dryish medium-full body with great depth and smoothness. Finishes with a long, rich toasted nut bread, fig paste, cocoa and peppery spice fade.

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