German-Style Heller Bock/Maibock – European Origin Lager Styles

German-Style Heller Bock/Maibock Style

  • Color: Pale to light amber. The German word “helle” means light-colored, thus Heller Bock is a pale beer.
  • Clarity: Appearance should be clear. Chill haze should not be present
  • Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Light toasty and/or bready aroma and flavor is often present. Roast or heavy toast/caramel malt aromas and flavors should not be present.
  • Perceived Hop Aroma & Flavor: Low to medium-low, derived from noble-type hops.
  • Perceived Bitterness: Low to medium-low
  • Fermentation Characteristics: Fruity esters, if present, should be low. Diacetyl should not be present.
  • Body: Medium to full

German-Style Heller Bock/Maibock Vital Statistics

  • Original Gravity (°Plato) 1.066-1.074 (16.1-18 °Plato)
  • Apparent Extract/Final Gravity (°Plato) 1.012-1.020 (3.1-5.1 °Plato)
  • Alcohol by Weight (Volume) 5.0%-6.4% (6.3%-8.1%)
  • Bitterness (IBU) 20-38
  • Color SRM (EBC) 4-9(8-18 EBC)

2020 Brewers Association Beer Style Guidelines used with permission of Brewers Association.

Credit: 2020 Brewers Association Beer Style Guidelines – Lager Styles – European Origin Lager Styles – German-Style Heller Bock/Maibock