Advanced Cicerones compare: Weissbier vs. Weizenbock

In this German Wheat Ale episode, Advanced Cicerones Chris Cohen & Chris Crowe sit down to taste and discuss the differences between Weissbier & Weizenbock. We've got BJCP approved commercial examples Paulaner Hefe-Weizen vs. Weihenstephaner Vitus.

These beer styles are very much related and so share many characteristics. They're both pale, made with at least 50% wheat, highly carbonated, and feature that classic German wheat beer yeast profile of clove (4-vinyl guaiacol, a phenol) and banana (isoamyl acetate, an ester). So how can you tell them apart? The main difference here is alcohol level and body density. If you're smelling perfumey alcohol or feeling any throat warming booziness, it'll be the bock version, you'll never get that from a regular strength Weissbier. Also, the Weizenbock has a MUCH denser and full body. So, it all really comes down to mouthfeel and booziness with this one, which makes it a fun comparison! Remember, NEVER rely on visual cues in a blind tasting — for instance in this case the stronger beer was paler and neither were particularly hazy.

The Beer Scholar "Classic Style Side-By-Side" series, we compare similar classic styles, discuss them, & provide tips for how to pick them apart in a blind tasting. This is all about helping you pass the Certified & Advanced Cicerone exams. Tasting blind is HARD, we're here to help!

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