Thanks go out to russpowell for this.
WOW! I’ve had this one for a long time in the back of the DBF and I had very low expectations for it on a number of levels. Firstly I’ve had a couple of FC brews before and I was less than impressed. Secondly I’ve had this for quite a while and I thought that time would not have been all that kind to it. Thirdly, although I like the doppelbock style, there is a fine line between good and poor. So, I open this up not expecting much, and then…
…a nice chestnut pour with good clarity. Head is average and short lived and there is not much lace to speak of.
Aroma is amazing. Partly because I DIDN’T realze this was a smoked beer! I thought it was just a regular Doppelbock. Mild smoke followed by a delicious smoked bacon note. Fantastically the bacon is deliciously replicated in the taste! I’ve had plenty of Rauchbiers before, and the ham note is often there, but this is really different – a REAL bacon character, and it’s great!
Finishes smooth and pleasing with a little sweetness. I simply cannot believe this is 10.00% – the alcohol is absolutely NOWHERE to be seen, and it drinks like a beer less than half its ABV.
Tasty, and a HUGE surprise.