Judge’s Review: 98 Rating – Andechser Weissbier Dunkel by Kloster Andechs

Dunkles Weissbier | Year-Round | Germany

By John C. Tull

Judges Rating: 98
Aroma: 24
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 39
Mouthfeel: 10
Overall Impression: 19

Andechser Weissbier Dunkel by Kloster Andechs was judged as Dunkles Weissbeir, Style 10B per the BJCP 2021 Style Guidelines.
In the tradition of German wheat beers, and the classic yeast strains used to produce them, this beer showcases a clove phenol aroma with more subtle ester notes in the background. The wheat, both light and dark varieties, in addition to pilsner malt or similar, lend a bready and rich (but restrained) caramel quality that hints at chocolate. All of this is melded into a very satisfying and complex aroma.
The appearance is dark copper, almost brown, with a modest amount of cloudiness. A fine, tan head lingers across most of the surface and the edges of the glass. The flavor has wheat malt breadiness, hints of dark caramel, and mild clove and fruit undertones. Bitterness is very low, but detectable. The mouthfeel is medium with significant carbonation presenting a perception of a crisp finish, but that perception is overtaken by the malt presence lingering and softening that slight carbonic edginess.
Overall, this is an outstanding example of a Dunkles Weissbier that is very true to the classic expression of this style.