Held-Bräu Weizenbock is one gorgeous beer and possibly the best dark Weizenbock I’ve ever had in Franconia. It’s roasty for the style and I’d generally not like that but in this one it really works as it interplays with the hops in a subdued way. The lingering finish is sublimely dry for the style and shows a little less alcohol in this style can be a good thing at 6.9%.
Schroll Bock is a dark rich beauty with a hint of licorice and a fine dryish bittersweet finish. This version from gravity dispense at Der Pelikan Best of Bock 2023 was extra dry.
Schroll Weizenbier has a fruity nose which is enticing with a balanced fruity palate. The finish is less sticky than many.
Schroll Landbier is one of Franconia's most beloved dark beers, with a malty palate and dry moreish finish. This gravity dispense version was sublime.
Schroll Trüber Pils is a hoppy departure for the family brewery more noted for malty brews. The spicy hop element is still well-balanced and the dry bitter finish is moreish.
Held-Bräu Fest-Bier is typical Festbier with a balanced malty palate and clean semi-dry finish.
The Pretzfelder Kirschenweg is a pretty hiking circuit which starts in Pretzfeld, a short train trip from Forchheim. The Pretzfelder Keller is an idyllic place for your beery reward.
Held-Bräu Bock is a light amber and drier than most Hellerbocks.
Beer Hiking Bavaria is a great guide that details 50 hikes in Bavaria which pass by or end at some of Bavaria's best breweries. This one near Forchheim in Franconia brings you to the local brewing legend in Hetzelsdorf, Penning-Zeissler.
Heckel-Bier is one of those brews you will think back on and want another. This means returning to the brewery. It will never be the same elsewhere.
