Duckwalk Dunkelbock
Elk Creek Cafe + Aleworks

A-Deep copper with caramel highlights and a thin light tan head that reduced to a thin veil and left spotty lace.

S-The simple answer is malty---period. A bit more investigation is sweet caramel malt with a touch of chocolate and brown sugar.

T-Deep, rich malty roast with notes of toffee and coffee in the finish. Notes of brown sugar and dark fruit also swirl in the background. A lovely tasting brew.

M-Medium body with a smooth, slightly syrupy feel. Flavours linger nicely and finishes rather dry.

D-Interesting combination of styles that really works! An impressive melding of roastiness and smoothness. A very tasty brew.

On tap at Elk Creek on 1/3/09.

A - Poured a deep copper color with dark amber highlights and one finger of bubbly beige head that receded to a thin ring and deposited patchy lacing on the glass.

S - Initial aroma suggests subtle chocolate notes with some caramel malt sweetness. Hints of toffee and brown sugar soon emerge, followed by a very subdued spicy hop character.

T - Flavor is a complex blend of smokey and malty characteristics with traces of dark fruit, burnt caramel, subtle spices and woody notes. Hints of chocolate also emerge as the liquid warmed up a bit. Finishes with a toasted nutty character and a bit of earthy hop bitterness.

M - Medium body with a slightly syrupy texture, yet still retains a fairly slick mouthfeel overall. This brew is mildly carbonated and soft on the palate. Finishes with a subtle bittersweet coating on the tongue.

D - I found this to be a really complex and flavorful brew that I enjoyed more with each passing sip. I hope Elk Creek keeps this selection on their winter tap roster.