German and Irish

When I think of Germany and Ireland, I think that the two countries have nothing in common. Their language, their culture, and their climate is pretty different.

But both Germans and the Irish are known for their beer, and their best beer, I find is dark and malted.

Also, there are a lot of Germans and Irish in Canada.

So, when a southern-Ontario brewer came out with a spring doppelbock in time for St. Paddy's Day, I was all over it.

Sham-Bock (6.9% ABV)
Railway City Brewing Company
St. Thomas, ON
Beer O'Clock rating: 4

Appearance:  walnut-brown with red highlights; a creamy, beige head that pours to an ample foam and settles to a solid, thick cap.

Nose: chocolate, corn syrup, lots of malt.

Palate: rich malts with a slightly sweet maple-syrup flavour and a touch of herbs. A full body that ends in a rich finish.

Overall impression: this is an excellent bock, with tons of flavour and a rich, full body that delivers from beginning to end. With our winter hanging on and no sign of spring in sight, this is an ale that warms you inside.

Because Sham-Bock is a seasonal, you're going to have to search the LCBO for it, but lots of outlets have plenty in stock, so grab some while you can. And, for St. Paddy's Day, go for a dark beer with a difference.

Cheers!