Spaten Optimator is a German doppelbock. As is typical with the style, it is brown with reddish highlights and has a rich caramel smell promising a sweet taste.
The smell is not misleading: rich, sweet, caramel with brown sugar and hints of dark fruit, with a light carbonation that leaves a delicate zing on the tongue.
Why did I pair it with pork?
The Germans eat a phenomenal amount of pork each year – the 4th highest per capita consumption in the world. I made an assumption that a German beer will be a good pairing.
So, how does this pair with pork?
Fantastically well! The doppelbock brings out the sweetness of the pork, but the savoury nature of the pork stops the doppelbock taste becoming overwhelmingly sweet. The hops provide a smack of bitterness to cleanse your tongue and get it ready for the next bite.
A+ combo: highly recommended!
Tags: Doppelbock, Optimator, Pork, Spaten
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