When it comes to big brewers, there aren’t many I trust. Shiner comes to mind, as does Yuengling. I’m not sure what it is that makes me like Yuengling, but I do. So when I saw their Bock offering, I picked up a 6-pack.?
It’s not like I had high expectations. I never do with Yuengling. I know what I’m going to get – a beer better than Budweiser, that isn’t a craft beer. I expect more of an adjunct taste from a beer like this, but Yuengling is one of my go-to breweries when we’re hosting parties. So I figured, why not give this Bock a shot and review it?
Good news.
While not the best example on the market of a Bock, this is a good, drinkable example of the style. Easy to drink more than one and VERY wallet friendly. So no, it isn’t a craft beer, but it is definitely something I’m comfortable handing to a Miller Lite fan and saying “Try something better.” (Which I did and she loved it.)
What they say: “America’s Oldest Brewery proudly offers Yuengling Bock Beer. This seasonal release resurrects an old brewery tradition of producing a Bock in the late winter and early spring. Dark brown in color, this unique brew offers an exceptional flavor to be enjoyed by all. We invite you to to enjoy the taste of traditional, quality family brewing.”
My take:
This Bock pours a dark brown with a short, cream colored head that dissipates quickly and leaves some light lacing behind. When you lift the glass, you notice a very sweet smell. It’s almost candy-like and not at all what you expect. Again, this is not a craft beer, but for a big brewery, this is a very good offering.
I might even prefer this to Shiner Bock, which was a brew I couldn’t wait to see on the shelves on the East Coast.
?While there’s more carbonation than I typically like, it does go down smooth. The flavor is nice, but average for a Bock. It pairs up nicely with things like Hamburger Helper or pizza. Just enough to cut through those flavors, without being overpowering.
It’s kind of like drinking a Yuengling Traditional Lager, but with more flavor. It just has a certain feel that Yuengling fans know very well. ?It’s hard to put into words if you haven’t had a Yuengling, but easy to understand if you have!
As long as they’re keeping Yuengling Bock on the shelves, I can see myself keeping a supply in the fridge. If you aren’t a fan of lagers and IPAs, this is a good alternative for the spring when you’re at the grill. Flavorful, while remaining light enough to enjoy on a hot day.?
SO while I’m happy to return to true craft beers next week, I’m glad I took this little diversion to the Yuengling Bock. It’s inexpensive and unoffensive. It made me a little sad that the 6-pack disappeared from my fridge so quickly.
Oh well, at least there’s a Dogfish Head 120 Minute IPA waiting in there, too. It makes me feel a whole lot better.
Overall, I’ll give the Yuengling Bock a 5 out of 10. It’s a good, average beer that I think would surprise a few folks!?
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