In the vast world of beer, where innovation and tradition often collide, there’s a style that stands out for its rich maltiness and deep, complex flavors—Doppelbock. Originating in Munich, Germany, this strong, malty lager has captured the hearts of beer enthusiasts worldwide. Here’s a short overview of the Doppelbock, exploring its history, characteristics, and the subtle nuances that differentiate the pale and dark variants.
Doppelbock, translating to “double bock,” is a Bavarian specialty that emerged in the 1700s, crafted by the monks of St. Francis of Paula. Known as “liquid bread,” this robust beer was a sustenance during the Lenten fast, showcasing higher sweetness and lower alcohol levels in historical versions. The court ruling in the 19th century restricted the use of the name “Salvator” to Paulaner, leading other breweries to adopt names ending in “-ator.” Traditionally, dark brown, paler versions are a more recent evolution.
Pils, Vienna, and Munich malts form the backbone of Doppelbock, occasionally joined by dark malt for color adjustment. Traditional German hops and a clean German lager yeast contribute to the beer’s characteristic profile. Decoction mashing, a traditional technique, adds depth to the flavor. The style’s history is deeply rooted in Munich, with modern interpretations leaning towards lower sweetness and higher alcohol levels.
Characteristics of a Doppelbock
The aroma of Doppelbock is a prelude to its rich flavor profile. In both pale and dark variants, a very strong maltiness prevails, accompanied by light caramel notes. Dark versions offer a symphony of Maillard products, toasted malt, and hints of chocolate without any roasty or burnt undertones. Dark fruit whispers, like plums or dark grapes, add depth. Pale variants boast a robust, toasty malt presence, often accompanied by a light floral, spicy, or herbal hop accent.
When you pour a Doppelbock into your glass, expect a visual feast. Dark variants showcase a copper to dark brown hue with ruby highlights, crowned by an off-white head. Meanwhile, pale versions shimmer in deep gold to light amber, topped with a white head, inviting you into the sensory experience that awaits.
The flavor of Doppelbock is a celebration of malt. Whether dark or pale, the malt dominates, with hop bitterness ranging from moderate to moderately low. Dark variants echo the aroma, with malt and ester flavors mirroring the richness of Maillard products. Pale versions dance on the palate with bready and toasty malt flavors, complemented by a light floral, spicy, or herbal hop presence and a drier finish.
Doppelbock boasts a medium-full to full body with moderate to moderately low carbonation. Its smooth texture lacks harshness or astringency, and while a light alcohol warmth may grace your senses, it should never overpower with a burning sensation.
Style Comparison
Doppelbock stands as a stronger, richer, and more full-bodied version of both Dunkles Bock and Helles Bock. Pale variants exhibit higher attenuation and less dark fruity character than their darker counterparts. With an Original Gravity (OG) ranging from 1.072 to 1.112, International Bitterness Units (IBUs) between 16 and 26, Final Gravity (FG) from 1.016 to 1.024, Standard Reference Method (SRM) of 6 to 25, and Alcohol By Volume (ABV) of 7.0% to 10.0%, Doppelbock showcases a broad spectrum within its style.
Ready to try a new beer?
Explore the world of Doppelbock with exemplary choices like Andechs Doppelbock Dunkel, Ayinger Celebrator, Paulaner Salvator, Spaten Optimator, and Tröegs Troegenator for the dark versions. For those inclined towards the pale side, indulge in Eggenberg Urbock 23º, Meinel Doppelbock Hell, Plank Bavarian Heller Doppelbock, Riegele Auris 19, Schönbuch Doppelbock Hell, and Staffelberg-Bräu Zwergator.
Explore the growing variety of beers in one taproom, The Growler Guys. Each location carries the best local varieties, from the palest ales to the darkest stouts, along with ciders and kombucha. Our friendly staff is happy to walk you through the characteristics of every style to help you discover your personal favorites. Take home the beers you love best in a growler to share with family and friends. View our online tap list to learn about the available selections at a location near you!
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