Entries tagged with “Bell's” from Malt & Barley Chronicles

Wow.  A domestic doppel that has definitely earned the storied "-ator" appellation.  I'm generally a fan of the Bell's brews, but this one is a knockout even by their standards.  And they earn some brownie points for the clean packaging -- white label with copper and brown print featuring two mirrored goat heads.

Characteristics: Reddish-brown color, light-to-medium carbonation, light body, toasted biscuit malt and yeast flavors that are moderated by a mid-level yeastiness and a little alcohol kick.

Minor Gripes: If you keep it too long, chill it too much, or let it approach room temperature, the alcohol dominates the other flavors... and at a typical 7% ABV, that dominance may not be welcome.

Bottom Line: A splendid addition to the doppelbock tradition.  Keep this one in mind when the weather cools off again (doppelbocks are hard to handle in the summer). 

Rating: 7.25 / 10

Like many regional breweries, Bell's is sometimes hit-or-miss.  The Oberon wheat ale has remained fairly consistent over the past 5-6 years, however -- always thicker than it looks, working a subtle line between hop-overload and red/amber roasty notes.

Characteristics: Cloudy, rich gold color, average head and carbonation, medium-to-heavy body, moderate bitterness carries through from start to finish with a slight citrus finish and a grainy feel on the tongue.

Minor Gripes: This ale is VERY temperature-dependent -- too cold and it's just a heavy yellow lager, too warm and it's literally liquid bread.  The sweet spot is very hard to find, especially in a bar.

Bottom Line: Bell's Oberon is a good beer if you like weiss beers and are willing to experiment a little on the heavier side.  At the same time, with summer rapidly approaching in Washington, Oberon season is nearly over (head out to Michigan or Wisconsin to enjoy it for a few more months).

Rating: 5.75 / 10