Kulmbacher Eisbock

Justifying my expenses and trying to pay off bills is proving to be a challenging task, especially when I sort of have a weekly tradition of stopping off at the liquor store and perusing around with hopes of finding something new, interesting and tasty to try. Nevertheless, nearly a year ago I committed to having occasional alcohol reviews on this 'zine, therefore on with thee drunkening!

A friend introduced me to Kulmbacher Eisbock back during the middle of the summer one night in what turned out to be a pretty random and chaotic metal party. I didn't wake up with the taste of vomit in my mouth, thankfully, but it wasn't long until I started craving another one of these babies, which I've been enjoying ever since.

Kulmbacher pours out in a dark shade of brown with a tan head that lingers about for a few minutes before slowly fading with a little bit of lacing within the glass. The smell of this here brew is of a malty character with a bit of a molasses and fruity sort of scent. Likewise the taste upholds to the malty smell with a bit of a raisin, toffee, caramel, cocoa, vanilla and bourbon sort of finish that's absolutely robust, rich and utterly delicious overall. So, much so that I honestly wouldn't hesitate to brand it one of the best beers I've ever drank and although its a fine one to enjoy with buddies, it seems like the perfect sort of drink to have after a large meal as it just complements it well and goes down so smoothly.

In case you didn't know, Eisbocks are created by freezing off a portion of the water, and removing it from the beer. This form of concentration increases the beer's body, flavor and alcohol content, which is 9.2% Alc/Vol BTW, and as such one that's likely to liven up any shindig or just be enjoyed privately.

This is my first experience with an Eisbock, but it definitely intrigues me to try others, especially if there's other beers out there that are as lip smackingly delicious as this one is.