Spring Beer Season: Lenten Bock

From ChapGPT: Deep within the Bavarian Alps, a devoted order of monks labored in secrecy to craft a special beer for the Lenten fast. Knowing that their strict vows forbade solid food during this solemn time, they sought divine inspiration in their brewing. Using the richest barley and the purest spring water, they perfected a dark, malty bock beer—so nourishing it could sustain them through their fasting. By candlelight in the monastery’s hidden cellars, they brewed batch after batch, whispering prayers over the bubbling cauldrons, hoping their creation would be deemed worthy.

But before they could fully embrace their liquid sustenance, the monks needed papal approval. A small group set off on horseback, carrying barrels of their precious brew to Rome. The journey was long and treacherous, and as they crossed mountains and rivers, the beer sloshed and spoiled in the heat of the Italian sun. By the time they arrived at the Vatican, the once-smooth and hearty drink had turned sour and unpalatable. The Pope, upon tasting the foul liquid, grimaced but, seeing the monks’ sincerity, deemed it an acceptable penance—if this was their drink, surely it was a fitting sacrifice for Lent.

The monks, stifling their laughter, left Rome with hearts full of joy. Upon returning home, they celebrated, knowing their delicious and hearty beer was now officially sanctioned for their fast. From that day forward, their secret brew became a cherished tradition, sustaining not only their bodies but also their spirits through the long, solemn weeks of Lent.

Awesome beer lore, as interpreted by ChatGPT. Well done!

This beer really did turn out great. It pours a caramel or copper color with hints of sweet bread and slight minerality in the aroma. The flavor is clean, crisp, slight toffee and caramel with a refreshing bitterness at the finish. Absolutely delicious. Even though it finished at 1.019 this gave it some body and slight sweetness that I enjoyed. I really liked this one and intend to brew it again very soon! Recipe here

STATS

• OG 1.054

• FG 1.019

• ABV 5.8%

• IBU 23

• Yeast WLP860 Munich Helles fermented at 60-62F

What Is Your Favorite Spring Beer Style To Brew?