5.09.2008

Mother's Day Beer from Ft. George: Illuminator Doppelbock

by John Foyston, The Oregonian May 05, 2008 09:45AM

The Fort George Brewery + Public House releases its new Bourbon Barrel-Aged Doppelbock this Mother's Day, May 11th --- which coincides with the start of the Astoria Sunday Market, so moms who are out and about downtown are encouraged to stop by and try the Fort George's latest creation.

Doppelbock is a strong German-style lager, traditionally brewed in the winter to be consumed in the springtime. The monks of St. Francis of Paula originally brewed this style of beer, calling it Salvator, which means savior. Other German brewers began making the beer, of which there are now about 120, all with the suffix, -ator. (blogger's note: As you might imagine, the incorporation of the -ator suffix is an occasion for much brewerly ingenuity... my favorite is Walking Man's Somnabulator, or sleep walker...)

Now, after months of fermenting and aging their brew in Jim Beam bourbon barrels, Fort George brewers are calling their Doppelbock Illuminator, which reflects the experience of drinking the beer.

Mom-tested tough: (From Left) Tracey Erfling with son Toveri and Zetty McKay with daughter Amelia...

"Warm and inviting, the beautiful, dark brown color sparkles as it catches the light. Illuminator tastes rich and malty, with an intriguing hint of bourbon, and a nice dry slightly hoppy finish to balance it out," said Chris Nemlowill, of the Fort George Brewery + Public House.

Fort George Brewery & Public House, 1483 Duane Street Astoria, 503-325-PINT