The Hell’s Bock has been sitting in my China cabinet for probably 6 months. As I recall, I picked it up on a trip to Vermont that we made in late Spring. I completely forgot about it! It’s a big bottle. 1pt, 6oz. At 8% ABV, I’m hoping it won’t put me to sleep. We are watching a Bruins game tonight, and although I love the Bs, I get narcoleptic when I’m watching them. Combine that with some booze and it’s often night-nights.
It pours with good head. Unlike recent evenings, I was patient with the pour. Lots of lacing combined with the deep burnt orange color makes for a pretty little drink.
The aroma reminds me of a citrusy IPA, but the flavor provides a lot more depth. The first thing that hits your tongue is smooth & creamy caramely malt. The citrus comes next, accompanied by “the bitter”. At 75 IBU, did you really think you’d escape…”the bitter”? I feel like it is well balanced though. Although the label says EXTREME, it’s not mouth-puckering extreme.
All-in-all, a very solid brew. Bonus points for being from my native state.
Homebrew Academy
