Dunkles Bock: A Seasonal Nod to Tradition

Later this winter, Cooley Bay Brewery will release its Dunkles Bock, a beer that bridges centuries-old German brewing heritage with the craft-forward sensibilities of the Pacific Northwest. Born from a desire to celebrate malt richness and winter conviviality, this release exemplifies what happens when tradition meets thoughtful, modern brewing.

The story of Dunkles Bock begins far from the shores of Cooley Bay, in Einbeck and Bavaria, Germany. Bock beers trace their lineage to the medieval ales of Einbeck, first documented in the 1300s and prized for their strength and flavor. Over time, Bavarian brewers adapted the style to their cooler lagering techniques, birthing the dark, robust lagers that would come to define the category. The name “Bock” itself evolved from “Ein Bock,” reflecting this cross-regional evolution.

When we set out to create the Cooley Bay version, we leaned into this rich history while adding local character. The result is a deep amber to mahogany lager that drinks warmer and heartier than typical session beers, yet remains smooth and balanced. At around 7% ABV, Cooley Bay’s Dunkles Bock holds its strength quietly—favoring depth over punch.

In the glass, the visual allure is immediate: a glossy, dark pour crowned with a persistent tan head. Aromas of toasted bread, caramel, and biscuit weave with subtle notes of brown sugar and roast. This malt-driven profile reflects careful grain selection—Munich and Vienna malts take center stage, coaxing sweet and toasty flavors without veering into heavy or cloying territory. Hops are used sparingly, their role purely to balance sweetness with a touch of earthy bitterness rather than to assert themselves.

Appreciation of this Dunkles Bock is as much about context as composition. Best enjoyed in the heart of winter—in a cozy seat, with friends, and alongside a delicious Cooley Bay prepared dish—this beer invites slow sipping. Slightly warmer drinking temperatures (around 45–50°F) unlock the layered malts, allowing subtle dark fruit and toasted caramel notes to come forward.

Food pairings complement the beer’s character: Cooley Bay’s Beer Board, Pig & Fig flatbread, a made fresh in-house Butter Board, or alongside one of Karen’s decadent desserts. But Cooley Bay’s Dunkles Bock also stands alone as a contemplative winter companion—complex enough to savor solo, yet versatile enough to elevate any cold-season gathering.

With this release, Cooley Bay honors the lineage of classic German lagers while offering its own textured, seasonal expression—a beer that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor.