Kloster Reutberg‘s history begins in 1618 as a monastery of beer drinking nuns. The local countess was surprised by the fact that they preferred beer to water. As the nuns continued to brew more than they needed, they sold it to the public which raised issues with other local brewers as they were producing beer cheaper than their secular compatriots.
This pattern continued until the abbey was shut down in the Napoleonic secularization. In 1835, the abbey was reestablished as a Franciscan monastery. Like its predecessor, the abbey was producing popular, cheap beer that caused the local competitors to complain. The friar decided to shut down their operations and lease them out. The brewery was reopened in 1906 as a cooperative and has operated as that since.
Josefi-Bock is named in honor of the St. Joseph who was the patron saint of nuns of Reutberg. It’s brewed with a mix of 50% mix of light and dark malts and lagered for 3-5 months.
Appearance: Orange/gold, beige head, good retention.
Aroma: Nuts, grainy, barley chaff, caramel, toffee.
Taste: Bready, treacle, touch of crisp hops.
Overall Impression: This is a nice mix between a helles and a dunkel bock with a touch of sweetness. It’s not as heavy as a doppelbock and strikes a nice balance. This is a good bock for those looking to try a bock that sits in the middle of several categories of Bock.
Availability: In select states at stores that sell German beers, imported by Uplifters Spirits. You can check which states they distribute to on their website.
6.9% ABV
