Samuel Adams Amber Bock

Bocks traditionally have been Spring beers, the first brew after a long Winter...do a search for "Bock" on this blog and you'll get more information. Despite the seasonal dissonance, I have no problem including Amber Bock in the Winter Classics variety pack. At 25 IBUs, it's just hoppy enough, but hoppy isn't really what a bock does. The color is a light...well...amber, with a thin white head. The main impression is a malty sweetness with caramel and toffee notes, but not overwhelmingly so; I am definitely on board with a beer being beer without any distractions. Food pairings include bratwurst, Cajun chicken, or even lamb curry. Pepperoni would not be out of place. I'm going to go out on a limb and suggest pumpkin cheesecake as well.