The trip to Maine via Ithaca, NY is fast approaching and I am doing my best to line up some new content for the site even while I am away from home. Beer review Tuesday is an easy one.
My hope is that Erin (and PJ) will be happy to see an evaluation of a Leinenkugel product even if it is of a beer that I didn’t particularly enjoy. Maybe this is a reaction to me picking the Packers to win yesterday and them responding with a loss to the Bengals at home!? They make far better ones and I promise to get to them eventually. I generally enjoy their beers, but I will take a pass on this one from here on.
Brewery: Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co. (Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin)
Name: 1888 Bock
Style: Traditional Bock
ABV: 5.1%
Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge and served in a pilsner glass.
Aroma: Moderate lightly toasted malt aroma.
Appearance: Brown with ruby highlights in the background. Tall (four finger or so), tan head that dissipates slowly with some trail. Clear with many tiny bubbles.
Flavor: Some toasted malty flavor (not overwhelming). Light hop bitterness with slight astringency at the finish. Flat flavor overall.
Mouthfeel: Medium to light body (if that) with pretty low carbonation. The opposite of creamy (whatever that is).
Overall Impressions: Low alcohol for style (6.3-7.2%). Really blah overall and I wouldn’t bother with it again (even though this one was a freebie). Not their best beer.
Grade: C (probably generous)
Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co. - 1888 Bock
I haven’t tried the Leinie Bock, so I can’t say too much. I wasn’t impressed by their Classic Amber this year either, so I’ll stick to the Red. If you get a chance, grab the Big Butt later this year – not one to miss….
I should have given you a list of “don’t bothers” on theirs
This is one of my least faves as well – also – pass on the Berryweiss if you see it. I do love their Honeyweiss and their Sunset Wheat. I also agree with PJ about the Red and Big Butt. Fantastic.