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Maibock/Helles Bock

“May Bock” – was a popular brew at German springtime festivals, as cold seasons turned warm. With this nod to history, it’s now a popular spring seasonal style among American craft brewers. This German lager style may also go as Helles Bock, with “Helles,” or “bright,” denoting its color as the lightest of the Bock styles. Generally deep golden in tone, Maibock displays rich, pale malt aromas and bready, toasty flavors. Noble hop character is more prominent than in other Bock styles and contributes more balancing bitterness to the malt sweetness. Its smooth and clean lager mouth-feel finishes dry. Like most Bock style beers, Maibock or Helles Bock is generally higher in alcohol than other lagers.

Characteristics: Malty, bready, toasty, earthy, medium-bodied
ABV range: 6.2-8% IBU: 22-36
Popular Maibock/Helles Bock-style beer brands: Hofbräu Maibock, Einbecker Mai-Ur-Bock, Primátor Maibock, Abita Andygator, Abita Bock, Fort Collins Maibock, Gordon Biersch Blonde Bock, Narragansett Bock
Serving Temperature: Cool, 46-54°
Cheese Pairing Ideas: Asiago, Colby, Gruyère, Swiss
Food Pairing Ideas: Spicy Asian, such as Thai or Korean barbecue, shellfish and fried foods

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