A dark clear brown ale with a thin lacing moka head. A sweet lightly molassey bock with fruity bananas, and treacle. In mouth, a nice chocolaty banana, cloves and a bit of oranges. Very nice. On tap at brewpub, August 15 2008.

A mix between orange gold and brown, with even some red flecks. Moderately small white head. Has a fresh almost citrusy smell. Empire’s classic example, called the Instigator. Smooth and tending towards a lighter malt taste up front, with some hops character. Grows sweeter and blossoms into a medium/full body with hints of what I would call a sweet orange flavor. Finishes with that traditional german yeasty/malt taste that is a little bit too sugary in my opinion. This one was lighter overall and less a challenge to drink than other dopplebocks. Prone to being a bit lacking of flavor overall. I liked the lighter take on a dopplebock, not really caring much for them, but a true dopplebock fan probably wouldnt.