Scherdel Schlappenbier is a richly malty amber Bock of 6.5% alcohol. Brewed for Schlappentag in Hof, it’s a limited release for the Hof public holiday which falls on the Monday following Whit Monday. Its nose has toasted malt and caramel. The malt forward brew is spicy with some burnt caramel notes. The lingering finish is semi-dry and bittersweet.
Scherdel Helle Weisse is a fruity example of the style with nice a yeast element. Both components intermingle in the enticing nose. The palate is quite balanced and refreshing. The lingering finish is semi-dry.
Felsenbräu Weizenbock is a richly malty brew with apricot in the nose and a richly malty palate full of fruit, yeast and obvious alcohol at 7.2%,
The Kösseinhaus is a great rustic hut located on the Kösseine peak in the Fichtelbebirge Nature Park. It can only be reached on foot from numerous parking lots within the park or further afield on long distance hiking routes. The closest lots involve hiking 2-3 kilometers on fair but uphill paths. There has been a weatherproof hut in this place since 1805 but the current structure was built in 1898 and totally renovated for its 100th anniversary. The hut is surprisingly large and while rustic, quite cozy. Full warm meals are served every day, year round. Since the closure of the Ratsstuben in Wunsiedel, this is probably the best place to sample the local Hönicka Bräu beers on tap. It’s certainly the most scenic!
Burgunstadt is a charming hilltop village with some lovely half-timbered houses. Günther-Bräu is the lone brewery remaining of the once four. Easily reached by train but hard to find their beer on tap. Try Royal.
While small Franconian breweries are having a tough time, often closing, even regional player are feeling the pinch. Many continue to brew but their brewery taps are closing at an alarming rate. Finding tenants isn't easy. Finding customers is getting even harder.
Scherdel Premium Pilsner is a classic German Pils with a balanced dry hoppy palate and clean finish.
Check out the Top 5 Beer experiences of 2023 and make plans to enjoy your beer dreams in 2024!
Meinel-Bräu Weizenbock is a lovely example of the style with a richly malty fruity palate and a lingering semi-dry finish. The mix of fruit, yeast and banana is classic.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a walled medieval wonder located on the Romantic Road in the Franconian part of Bavaria. It's also a great place to sample local beers and hike out to the legendary brewery gem in Spielbach.
