Aventinus Weizen Eisbock

Aventinus Weizen Eisbock, from G.Schneider & Sohn, approx. 12% abv.

I've read a lot about Eisbocks recently, and decided to pick one up. Apparently, back in the days before temperature-controlled shipping, beer would occasionaly freeze in transport. When separated from the layer of ice, the beer would become more concentrated and more complex in flavor. Today, modern brewers recreate this accidental style with controlled methods.

The Aventinus pours dark brown - almost cola-like in appearance, with zero head. The aroma is pretty interesting - some faint sweetness, then some fruitiness at the back end. (Is there such a thing as "after-smell"?) Some hints of molasses.

The taste is a little surprising - I think I was expecting something wheaty - but instead, it's almost like port wine...or a Belgian quad. Wading through the alcohol, there's some serious toffee and caramel flavors, with a little raisin in the finish...and some lingering maltiness.

It's really tasty stuff that sneaks up on you. I was really pleasantly surprised with this one.