Maibock
Barley Brown's Brewpub

The owner of Barley Brown’s informs us that his brewpub is small enough so he can brew what he wants, when he wants. This might explain why they’re offering a maibock – a traditional springtime celebration lager – in the middle of October. But is this cause for celebration? Well…

Barley Brown’s Maibock is a visual gem. The clarity is exceedingly, brilliantly flawless, producing a mesmerizing amber brew of great depth. Since no filtration is used, the lagering process must be substantial to prove so effective in eliminating flocculent mass. The head is slight while lace makes a fair showing.

But Maibock fails to stir further enthusiasm. It has a light fruity odor – like melon on a distant vine – with a faint yeasty echo. But its taste lacks malt fruitiness or spice, and the brilliant clarity expressed visually is not duplicated on the palate. Instead, a late flavor reminiscent of graphite blooms on the tongue and no clear taste definition is articulated.