One of those absolutely random bottle store finds that keeps me going into just about every beer store that I ever see. I think that I’ve had this before, but I find no notes.

A dirty, dubbel-like pour, but the pop on opening is encouraging. The first concern of a beer of any age is always carbonation. We can move on to all of the other problems, but that’s the first port of call and a test that this beer passes. After a little time in the glass it clears to give a much more attractive, dark copper body.

Nose is great. A surprisingly high level of alcohol, but also a lovely, rich, malty and almost liquor like note. Tastes reflect all of the same, and despite there being a very slight aging cardboard note (I’d be lying if I do not report it), it drinks nicely with an bourbon-like warmth on the end (there’s no bourbon taste, so please don’t think I’m saying that). Some dry ending notes, but there’s a richness about the beer before it ends.

The pure Dopplebock element has gone here, but it’s been replaced by a warming, alcoholic, smoothness that’s a pleasant and a happy surprise. I couldn’t possibly recommend this beer as a cellaring candidate, or that you seek it out as a Doppelbock, but if I’m honest, it drinks rather nicely and is a pleasure. Make of that what you will. For my part, I am happy to have bought it, opened it, and enjoyed it maybe 5 years after it was intended that I do.