Once again, Thrall Family Malt graciously prepared a small batch of custom smoked malt - this time, their Connecticut-grown barley was smoked over native oak. Rounding things out are a blend of local and German character malts along with restrained additions of Spalt Select and Tettnang. The Cavern was lagered for over three months. Our favorite examples of Rauchbier and Doppelbock walk a fine line. Assertive smoke character that doesn't cross over into acrid or overly phenolic is a tricky balancing act while complex and bready (but clean) maltiness without trending too sweet is the key to a great Doppelbock. The challenge may be great but so is the payoff -a deeply comforting and richly flavored beer that drinks with ease.