The History and Flavors of Bockbier at Turn Verein’s Fest

Every spring, the Sacramento Turn Verein’s Bockbier Fest brings a taste of Bavariar to California, spotlighting a beer with a history as rich as its flavor. Bockbier’s origins stretch back to the mid-1200s in the German town of Einbeck, a Hanseatic League hub where the beer was first crafted. While some playfully link its name to “bock,” the German word for goat, it’s more likely a nod to its birthplace—though the goat myth adds a fun twist to the tale!

By 1380, Einbeck boasted 600 breweries churning out this sought-after brew. Its fame spread to Munich, where demand grew so high that an Einbeck brewmeister was summoned to share his secrets—permanently. From there, Bockbier conquered Europe, evolving into the diverse styles we enjoy today. At the Turn Verein’s fest, you’ll encounter varieties like Dunkelsbock (dark and malty), Hellesbock (pale and crisp), Maibock (hoppy and bold), Weizenbock (wheat-infused), and Doppelbock (intense and sweet). Each adheres to the Reinheitsgebot, Germany’s 1516 purity law limiting beer to water, malt, and hops—a testament to tradition even yeast hadn’t yet joined the party back then!

Join us at the Bockbier Fest to sip these historic brews, savor German food, and enjoy live music and dance. It’s a delicious way to toast centuries of brewing brilliance right here in Sacramento!