Judge’s Review: 87 Rating – Magisterium Maibock by Church Street Brewing Co.

Helles Bock | Year-Round | United States

By Michael Heniff

Judges Rating: 87
Aroma: 20
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 35
Mouthfeel: 10
Overall Impression: 16

Magisterium Maibock by Church Street Brewing Co. is a Maibock and is being evaluated as a Helles Bock (category 4C in the 2015 BJCP Beer Style Guidelines). Helles Bocks are known as pale lagers of moderately high strength with a clean fermentation, rich maltiness and a slightly higher hop level than the other bock sub-styles. Maibocks are Helles Bocks that are specifically brewed to be served in May.
Magisterium Maibock pours golden in color with good clarity and a medium off-white head. The aroma is of moderate toasty and pils malts with a hint of hops. The flavor is toasty malt with a light toffee note; the hop level is just a hint with a little alcohol noticeable. The beer finishes lightly bitter with a light toasty malt flavor. 
Magisterium Maibock is a well-brewed strong lager. The malt character is lacking a little complexity and the finish is a little drier compared to the best Maibocks or Helles Bocks. Regardless, this is an enjoyable beer.