Weihenstephaner Korbinian

Much like the hefeweizen, the doppelbock is a style the Germans do best. I was excited to try Weihenstephaner Korbinian since it’s the doppelbock made by the world’s oldest brewery - how much more authentic can you get? And while it’s a good beer for sure, it’s not quite a great one. Still, there’s a lot to enjoy and appreciate here.

3.7

   AROMA 7/10   APPEARANCE 4/5   TASTE 7/10   PALATE 5/5   OVERALL 14/20

Chad9976 (823) - Albany, New York, USA - MAR 4, 2013

I poured a 500ml bottle into a lager glass. It cost $3.59 ($0.21 per ounce).

Appearance: Seemingly opaque brown hue, but actually a deep violet or ruby red. Forms a large, tan, soapy head which leaves some lacing and never completely dissipates.

Smell: Classic doppelbock aroma of pure malt essence, but milder than most. Dark fruit notes, but no alcohol.

Taste: Weihenstephaner Korbinian starts out with a gentle delivery of dark fruit, molasses and a hint of chocolate on the finish. It’s sweet, yes, but not cloying or sticky compared to some of the syrup-like bombs out there. A touch of bitterness or tang right on the finish, but not much in the way of actual hop character. That’s fine by me because it’s still a flavorful, appealing palate overall.

It’s quite possible my bottle was a vintage, which might explain the surprising mildness of this brew. That’s not to excuse it for being less robust than I prefer, though. The palate still works well for what it is and what it should be.

Drinkability: Though technically a lager, Weihenstephaner Korbinian drinks not only like an ale, but a cask ale. Amazingly soft and comfortable in the mouth with a smooth texture and ridiculously easy finish. A slightly sweet aftertaste, but nothing overbearing. The 7.4% ABV is well hidden, making this drink and feel like a lighter beer than it is. Still, one 500ml serving is the perfect amount.

 Grade: 7/10