Kloster Kreuzberg Weihnachtsbock
Brewery: Kloster Kreuzberg
Town: Bischofsheim/Rhön
Style: Dunkler Doppelbock 7.3%
Color: in Krug so no visuals, looks chestnut
Head: off-white, sudsy
Nose: richly malty, caramel, light floral hops
Body: full, soft
Palate: balanced, richly malty, underlying floral hops
Finish: lingering, semi-dry, bittersweet
Served: gravity dispense at their Bockbieranstich 2024 and on regular tap at the Kloster Kreuzberg Ausschank
Impression: I waited over 20 years to try this rich Doppelbock and what a way to finally have it. I found out about their Anstich last minute and managed to get there via public transportation including a Ruf Bus. The ceremonial tapping from a wooden barrel was presided over by one of the Franziskaner monks. The 20 liter barrel was dispensed for free. The rich malty Bock was served in a ceramic mug as is perfect for the occasion. It was surprisingly a full liter pour with the off white rocky head protruding over the rim. Caramel hit my nose first but underlying floral hops ensued. Some might find it sticky but it’s nicely balanced with burnt caramel and deceptive hopping. The lingering finish is moreishly semi-dry and bittersweet. It’s dangerously drinkable at 7.3%.
I love the monk legacy with a monk presiding over the ceremonial tapping. Definite class.
It was a very special event and really glad I made the considerable effort to get there.