Weihenstephaner Korbinian

Style: Doppelbock
Producer: Weihenstephan
Origin: Germany
Size: 50cl
Alcohol: 7.4%
Price: 38kr
Systembolaget: 8909801(20st)

Weihenstephan is a historic brewery in Freising, Bavaria that traces its continuous brewing operations back to 1040, making it widely regarded as the oldest brewery in the world that is still producing. Today it remains as a state-managed brewery that produces roughly 450,000 hectolitres of beer annually and works alongside the Technical University of Munich, which contributes scientific ability and quality control to brewing and beverage studies. Korbinian is a dark doppelbock named in honour of Saint Korbinian, reflecting the brewery’s monastic origins and centuries-old brewing tradition. Brewed according to the Bavarian Reinheitsgebot (purity law), with roasted malts giving it its colour and complexity. As I have stated many times over the years, Weihenstephan are one of my top 3 breweries of all time, so I’ll take any opportunity to have their beers in a tasting. As it had been quite some time since we had one in an event, I thought it was time to bring back this classic and it’s just as amazing as always.

This was mahogany to ruby in colour with a medium off white head that disappeared fairly quickly. The aroma was primarily of rye bread and raisins, with added touches of honey, caramel and coffee notes to finish. The dried fruit came through strongly at the start of the taste, with the dark malts, burnt brown sugar and toffee all chasing behind. The aftertaste was fairly mild but left a burnt note on the palate along with a sweet sultana note. The alcohol was present but gave added depth to the beer without being overbearing.

This is a classic dark lager that I’ve had the privilege to try a number of times and it’s still amazing. The depth of flavour and character is exceptional, and I would say its one of my favourite dark lagers of all time. An essential beer to try at some stage in your life.