Created three centuries ago in Germany, bocks are straightforwardly malty, beautifully brown and decidedly strong brews. German malts lend a rich aroma that may be toasty and a complex, toasty, bready flavor with just a touch of caramel. Some bocks feature ABVs in excess of 7 percent, but while some alcohol may be noticeable, it shouldn’t sting. It’s always easy to spot the bocks on store shelves; bock is German for goat, so horned billys are usually present on these beers’ labels.
Pair: Bocks’ caramelly notes make them natural matches for most meats; that sweetness mimics the glaze on a ham or sweet and savory turkey gravy.