LENTEBOCK ~ KONINKLIJKE BRAND BIERBROUWERIJ

6.5% brewed in Wijlre, Limburg Netherlands

Lentebock, a helles bock, brewed under the Budweiser umbrella, is only available in the spring. Sampled on Draught in Amsterdam, the beer poured a clear coppery amber with a small white head, that receded quickly, and left scant lacing. The nose had sweet malts, Belgian yeast, caramel and cloves, with subtle fruit notes and floral and lemony hops. The flavours on the nose continue on the palate (bread, caramel, fruit, cloves, yeast), with floral lemony hops making their appearance at the finish. The aftertaste is slightly bitter, but also has traces of orchard fruit. The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy, the body is on the light side of medium and the carbonation was average. Quite a pleasant, drinkable beer after a long day of walking.