The 2024 Autumnal Bockbieranstiche in Franconia

Autumn in Franconia heralds a beloved tradition that draws beer enthusiasts from near and far—the tapping of the autumn bock beer, known as Bockbieranstich. As the trees turn shades of gold and red and the crispness of fall settles in, local breweries prepare to unveil their bock beers, offering a rich and flavorful testament to the mastery of Franconian brewing.

The Autumn Charm of Bock Beer

While bock beers come in various styles, the autumn bock stands out for its seasonal appeal. This lager is brewed to mark the transition of seasons, boasting a malt-forward profile that perfectly complements the cooler weather. With a robust flavor, often featuring caramel notes, toasty undertones, and a smooth finish, it offers a comforting richness. Some variations, especially the paler ones, introduce a lingering bitterness. The higher alcohol content compared to standard lagers makes it an ideal drink to ward off the chill of autumn nights.

The Tradition of the Bockbieranstich

Bockbieranstich ceremonies are more than just beer tapings; they are a celebration of community, history, and craftsmanship. While the bock beer itself takes center stage, the atmosphere created by Franconia's traditional inns (Gasthäuser) and beer cellars (Bierkeller) elevates the experience. These venues are more than places to drink—they offer a gateway into Franconian culture.

Though Franconia is steeped in brewing traditions that have been passed down for centuries, a new generation of brewers is bringing a fresh perspective to the craft. One of the most exciting trends they’ve introduced is the pale bitter bock. Unlike the deep, malty bocks of the past, these paler versions are lighter in color but deliver a hop-forward flavor with a refreshing bitterness. Last year, breweries like Knoblach and Griess produced standout examples, with Griess showcasing a bock with a moderate 60 IBU.

These modern takes on the bock beer demonstrate the innovation and evolution within Franconia’s brewing community. While the region honors its long-standing traditions, it also embraces experimentation, blending old-world brewing techniques with contemporary flavors. The emergence of pale bitter bocks is a testament to this spirit of creativity, offering a perfect balance between tradition and innovation.

A Time for Celebration

The Bockbieranstich events are more than just a chance to sample unique beers—they are an opportunity to indulge in Franconian cuisine. The rich, malty flavors of the autumn bock pair beautifully with hearty fall dishes, such as slow-cooked meats, rustic breads, and earthy mushrooms. Together, the flavors on the plate and in the glass create a culinary experience that captures the essence of the season.

More than a mere beer tasting, these gatherings bring people together to celebrate the season and Franconian heritage. As you enjoy the malty depth of the autumn bock, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of fall in Franconia, you become part of a tradition that connects the past with the present.

In essence, Franconia’s autumn bock beer celebrations go beyond the beer itself. They are a cultural cornerstone, a tribute to the changing season, and an experience every beer lover should partake in—a true journey of flavor, history, and community.

Today Die fünfte Jahreszeit heads off as they say. Here's a glimpse of the autumnal Bockbieranstiche scheduled across Franconia this year:

September

20th: Göller, Drosendorf
20th: Müller-Bräu, Schmausenkeller, Reundorf
27th: Hönig, Diller Keller (Dörfleins)
27th: Schlossbrauerei, Reckendorf

October

2nd: Eichhorn, Dörfleins
2nd: Gänstaller, Gärtnerei Eichfelder, Bamberg
2nd: Schleicher, Itzgrund
4th: Knoblach, Schammelsdorf
4th: Zur Sonne, Bischberg
4th: Keesmann, Bamberg
5th: Griess, Geisfeld
10th: Heller (Schlenkerla), Bamberg
11th: Sauer, Roßdorf am Forst
11th: Fischer, Freudeneck
11th: Mahrs, Bamberg
12th: Meinel, Hof
12th: Günther, Burgkunstadt
12th: Göller, Zeil am Main
12th: Martinbräu, Marktheidenfeld
12th: Zum Löwenbräu, Neuhauser Felsenkeller
12th: Höhn, Höhnskeller, Memmelsdorf
17th: Ahörnla, Bamberg
18th: Klosterbräu Bamberg
18th: Kundmüller, Weiher
18th: Hönig, Tiefenellern
18th: Först, Drügendorf
18th: Mühlenbräu, Mühlendorf
18th: Hoh, Köttensdorf
18th: Adler-Bräu, Stettfeld
18th: Kundmüller, Weiher
19th: Müller, Debring
19th: Roppelt, Trossenfurt
19th: Ammerndorfer, Ammerndorf
24th: Fässla, Bamberg
25th: Hölzlein, Lohndorf
25th: Becher, Bayreuth
25th: Sonnen-Bräu, Mürsbach
25th: Dremel, Wattendorf
26th: Spiegel Bräu, im Hof des Lammbräu, Strullendorf
26th: Roppelt, Stiebarlimbach
26th: Schmitt Bräu, Scheßlitz
26th: Friedel, Zentbechhofen
26th: Neder, Forchheim
31st: Drei Kronen, Memmelsdorf
31st: Rittmayer (Hallerndorf), Rittmayer Keller Kreuzberg
31st: Hübner, Steinfeld (Stilbruch - Bamberg)

November

2nd: Wagner, Kemmern
2nd: Brauhof Rattelsdorf, Rattelsdorf
2nd: Beck, Trabelsdorf
2nd: Greif, Forchheim
2nd: Zur Sonne, Rathaus Ebern
4th: Will, Schederndorf
6th: Krug, Breitenlesau
7th: Spezial, Bamberg
8th: Reblitz, Nedensdorf
8th: Kraus, Hirschaid
8th: Hummel, Merkendorf
8th: Endres, Höfen
8th: Kaiser, Grassmansdorf
9th: Reh, Lohndorf
9th: Ulrich Martin, Schonungen
9th: St. GeorgenBräu, Buttenheim
15th: Wagner, Merkendorf
15th: Wagner, Oberhaid
16th: Hopfengarten, Bamberg
16th: Kronprinz, Bamberg
16th: Brandholz, Melkendorf
20th: Grasser, Huppendorf
21st: Greifenklau, Bamberg
22nd: Sternla, Bamberg
22nd: Brauerei Weber, Robersdorf
22nd: Brauerei Hennemann, Sambach
22nd: Ebensfelder Brauhaus, Sportheim TSV Ebensfeld
23rd: Hausbräu Stegaurach, Stegarauch
28th: Ambräusianum, Bamberg
30th: Brauhaus Unfinden, Unfinden

December

1st: Heller (Schlenkerla) - Eiche, Bamberg
5th: Kundmüller, Weiher
13th: Zehendner, Mönchsambach
18th: Gradl, Leups

Edit September 22nd. Thanks to Jose Santos Caro who kindly contributed to the list after the first publish.