The Intimidator
General Lafayette Inn & Brewery

Pours a very very deep red, with khaki head that soon fades away.

Aroma is dates, raisins, nutmeg, allspice -- but you can tell that's all from the malts and yeast...no adjuncts or flavorings here.

Taste is solid, with big deep slate notes, with caramel. Never flabby, this one is crisp as a fresh dollar bill. A little pepperyness comes through, but this is all malt, baby. Deep, dark, and very to style.

Mouthfeel is right where it should be, befitting the style.

Drinkability is great...almost too good considering the almost 9% that this year's batch is ringing in at.

I've always enjoyed bocks, but have enjoyed the helles style more in the past. This makes me want to take a look at more Doppels in the future.

The freshness of this brew is what really makes it shine. Makes me wonder how many German brews I've had that were that much better before they made the trip across the pond.

Spot-on, tasty, delicious. I'll be sad to see this one go.

This year's version is actually a potent 8.8%...
Appears a dark red brown with a small tan cap that fades quickly. No lacing is left behind in the glass.
Smell is of a true doppelbock. Solid, rich malt with caramel, raisins, hard candy, molassas, with some sourdough and a touch of cocoa. Rad!
The taste is of the same aromas. This one measure up nicely with the big boys. I would honestly think about taking this over one of the German doppelbocks.
Mouthfeel is sweet and malty with just a mild touch of hops. Feels nice and rich.
Drinkability is great. Who cares about the 8.8%? Not me! This beer is kicking ass on the tastebuds and they are demanding more of this treat.
How the hell are all of these American breweries making such great doppelocks lately? Hey, I'm not complaining but when the hell did it happen?