Springtime Beer Lore

Bock beer has traditionally been brewed during the winter months and lagered (stored) for consumption with the arrival of spring – generally as part of Easter festivities.  This beer style is noted for its dark, rich color, warm notes and a reasonably high gravity (alcohol content north of 6.5%).  

As the story goes  bock beer originated in the Northern German city of Einbeck in the 14th century.   As a consequence of trade a regional favorite gradually gained acceptance across all of Germany and later the rest of Europe.  

The name ‘bock’ is derived from ‘beck’ in Einbeck . Bock also translates to ‘billy goat'  (ziegenbock) and as bockbiers were generally brewed under the sign of Capricorn the name stuck.  Nowadays, the beer is generally associated with images of a goat. 

Yesterday as I sat upon my porch it was a perfectly tropical 49 degrees.  Sure, there is snow on the ground and mud season is only beginning yet as the label on this fine beer says:  You hold a Wisconsin Style Honey Bock, easy going  and more approachable than its traditional dark German cousin.  This pale bock is brewed with an exclusive blend of Wisconsin two row barley that balances perfectly with our special European hops.  Naturally sweet Clover Honey is added in the kettle accenting warm flavor notes on your tongue. One thing is certain about winter in Wisconsin – This too shall pass. 


Cheers!