Cherry Oak Doppelbock
Widmer Brothers Brewing, Portland, Oregon
Style: Oak-Aged Doppelbock with Cherries
Serving Style: 22 oz. Bottle

Aroma: Lightly toasty melanoidin malt character dominates with faint earthy smells and a background of dark cherry. No oak to speak of.

Appearance: The low, off-white head did not persist. I managed to raised a bigger, more creamy head with a more aggressive pour. Dark mahogany with ruby highlights. Clear.

Flavor: Lightly toasty caramel malt with raisins and hints of chocolate. Very light background cherry notes. Light alcohol, but not boozy. Background rummy flavors. The Oak doesn’t have much to say. Cherry flavors come in most strongly in the finish as lingering cherry pie. Finish is a bit sweet, less crisp than expected from a lager.  Cherry and vanilla oak become somewhat more pronounced as it warms

Mouthfeel: Medium-full body and creamy. Some warming alcohol. Low carbonation

Overall Impression: This beer was a bit of a disappointment. When I first heard about it I was intrigued. Cherry, oak, and doppelbock sounded like a great combination. Unfortunately the cherry and oak play such a minor role that all one is left with is a reasonably good doppelbock. If I had wanted just a doppelbock I would have picked up a Salvator or a Celebrator.