A while ago, G-LO came over with his boys. While they scampered around the yard, G-LO and I took up our post on The Barthenon (I mean as good parents keeping a watchful eye over our children, where else would we go?). Anyway, we sat around the table and mused about how to pass the time. I suggested we discuss a means to end world hunger; G-LO suggested a beer. Clearly, his was a better suggestion. I reached deep into the beer fridge and pulled out a bottle of Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Urbock. I picked this beer as G-LO has a fondness for smoked beers and I am trying to expand my palate (at least, beyond fruit shandies). The Urbock is produced by Brauerei Heller-Trum / Schlenkerla in Bamberg, Germany. A quick trip to their website reveals that the Urbock is one of the 50 best beers in the world and the only rauchbier on the list. At long last, my penchant for fancy bottles has paid off and I picked up a more than middling beer.

Before we get to my review, here is what Schlenkerla has to say about the Urbock:

A full bodied smoked bock beer for Bamberg’s strong beer season (October through December) in fall. Brewed already in the summer time, it is matured for months in the ancient Schlenkerla rock-cellars underneath Bamberg. Tapped freshly from the oakwood cask and the Schlenkerla brewery pub. Similar to, but much bigger than the classic Maerzen style.

And now for my thoughts…

Appearance : Chocolate brown with red highlights and lots of tan foam.

: Chocolate brown with red highlights and lots of tan foam. Aroma : Smoked meat; bacon, beef jerky, dog treats.

: Smoked meat; bacon, beef jerky, dog treats. Taste : Full-bodied, meaty stout with great flavor and balance.

: Full-bodied, meaty stout with great flavor and balance. ABV: 6.5%

I’m not sure what I was expecting other than a heavier, smoky beer. This was a fantastic diversion from my usual beer. This had the consistency of a stout but became a veritable Hillshire farm gift pack in a glass. This obviously isn’t a session beer but if you are looking for a diversion or a beer to pair with a heavy meal or some charcuterie, the Urbock will not disappoint.