NanoDog Bamberg Bock Review: Is This Smoky German-Style Lager from BrewDog's Small Batch Worth Trying?

BrewDog’s Small Batch series has always been a playground for experimental and limited-edition brews, and the NanoDog Bamberg Bock is a standout example. This smoky German-style lager takes inspiration from the historic rauchbiers of Bamberg, a city in Bavaria known for its beechwood-smoked malt. If you’ve ever wanted to explore that distinctive campfire-like character without committing to a full case of traditional smoked beers, this one-shot small batch might be your perfect entry point.

Unlike many modern craft lagers that lean crisp and clean, this bock embraces a more rustic, hearty profile. Brewed with a portion of smoked malt, it aims to deliver the signature aroma and taste of a classic Bamberg beer while keeping the alcohol level moderate enough for sipping. In this review, we’ll break down the aromas, flavours, texture, and how it stacks up against the German originals – plus a few honest tradeoffs you should know before buying.

What Is NanoDog Bamberg Bock?

NanoDog Bamberg Bock is a limited-release lager from BrewDog’s Small Batch line, meaning it’s brewed in relatively small quantities and may not be available year-round. The style is a German-style bock – a strong, malty lager – but with a twist: the use of rauchmalz (smoked malt) that gives it the characteristic smoky flavour associated with traditional Bamberg bocks. The abv typically sits around 6-7%, making it a bit more robust than a standard helles or pilsner, but still sessionable for a slow evening.

The base malt bill is built to support a rich, bready backbone with enough residual sweetness to balance the smoke. Hops are kept low to avoid clashing with the malt, so bitterness is minimal. If you’ve tried other smoked beers like a German rauchbier or an American porter with peat-smoked malt, this will feel familiar but distinct – more focused on the malt’s natural toastiness rather than an overt campfire punch.

• ABV: around 6-7% (check can for exact ABV)
• Style: German-style bock with smoked malt
• Availability: limited Small Batch release, so grab it when you see it

Tasting Notes: Aromas and Flavours

Pouring a deep copper with a persistent white head, the first thing you notice is the smoke – but it’s not overwhelming. Think more like a gentle wood-smoke aroma, similar to a barbecue smoker wafting from a distance, rather than licking an ashtray. Beneath that, there’s caramelised malt, a touch of toasted bread crust, and a hint of floral hop that quickly fades. The nose is clean, without any yeast-derived off-flavours.

On the palate, the smoke is present from start to finish but stays in the background of the malt sweetness. The body is medium-full, with a smooth, almost creamy carbonation that makes it easy to drink despite the richness. The finish is moderately dry, with the smoke lingering on the back of the tongue and a slight metallic edge that some might mistake for astringency – but it’s just the smoked malt’s natural character. If you’re new to smoked beers, this is a gentle introduction; if you’re a Bamberg veteran, you might wish for a more assertive smoke level.

• Smoke level: moderate, not overpowering
• Malt sweetness: caramel and toast, moderate
• Bitterness: very low, purely for balance

How It Compares to a Traditional Bamberg Rauchbier

If you’ve had a classic Bamberg rauchbier like Schlenkerla Märzen or Aecht Schlenkerla Weizen, you know that Bamberg beers often use 100% smoked malt, resulting in a profound, bacon-like smokiness. NanoDog Bamberg Bock takes a more restrained approach, likely blending smoked malt with standard Munich or Pilsner malt. This makes it more approachable for a broader audience, but purists may find it lacking the depth and complexity of a true Franconian rauchbier.

There’s also a difference in body: traditional bocks from Bamberg tend to be fuller and slightly more syrupy due to extended lagering and higher gravity. This NanoDog version is a touch lighter on the palate – still satisfying, but not quite as decadent. That said, the tradeoff is drinkability. You can easily finish a can without feeling weighed down, which is ideal if you’re pairing it with food rather than sipping it solo all evening.

• Smoke intensity: lower than traditional Bamberg bocks, ideal for newcomers
• Body: medium-full (traditional bocks are often fuller)
• Drinkability: higher, thanks to a lighter mouthfeel and moderate abv

Pairing Suggestions for Smoked Beer Lovers

Smoky beers like this bock are a natural match for charred meats, aged cheeses, and anything with a touch of sweetness. Try it alongside a smoked brisket or pulled pork – the barbecue flavours will sing. For a twist, brush some Punk IPA BBQ Rub onto grilled sausages or ribs before cooking. The citrus and spice notes in the rub will complement the malt’s caramel backbone without fighting the smoke.

If you’re looking for a gift for a craft beer enthusiast who enjoys German styles, consider building a themed pack. The Dads Craft Beer Gift Pack is a great starting point, and you could swap in a NanoDog Bamberg Bock for a bit of smoky variety. It also pairs beautifully with a hard cheese like Gouda or smoked cheddar, making it a solid choice for a beer and cheese board.

• Best with: smoked meats, grilled sausages, aged Gouda, smoked cheddar
• Avoid: very spicy dishes (chilli heat can clash with smoke) and delicate seafood

Where to Buy and Final Verdict

NanoDog Bamberg Bock is available exclusively through BrewDog’s online shop and at BrewDog bars – but because it’s a Small Batch release, stock can run out quickly. Check the Beer or Small Batch categories on the site, and if you see it, grab a few cans. It’s also worth keeping an eye on other limited-edition lagers in the same series if Bamberg Bock has already sold out.

Who should buy this? If you’re curious about smoked beer but haven’t tried a traditional rauchbier yet, this is a low-risk, friendly entry. If you already love German-style lagers and want something with a twist, it’s a satisfying detour. The only people who might be disappointed are hardcore Bamberg fans expecting a licking-flames-level smoke bomb – this is more like a gentle campfire glow. But for its price point and limited nature, it’s a worthy addition to any craft beer review list.

NanoDog Bamberg Bock delivers a balanced, drinkable take on a classic German smoked style. It won’t replace a pilgrimage to Bamberg, but it’s a thoughtful small-batch brew that showcases BrewDog’s ability to craft nuanced lagers. If you see it in stock, don’t hesitate – especially if you want to try smoky beer without jumping into the deep end.