October 12, 2005
A goat by any other name
I've done some research and the most common answer to the question "Why is it called bokbier?" is that bokbier is a bastardisation of "Einbeck-bier", this being, apparently where bokbier originates. In the local lingo "Einbeck-bier" became "Ainpöckisch Bier" and from there it's a small step apparently to "ein Bockbier" in German or "en bokbier" in Dutch.
However, for some this theory is just too simple and the PINT (the Dutch society for the promotion of information about traditional beers) goes on to explore some slightly more interesting ideas involving among other things satyr's, Dionyssian celebrations and a brief history of spring beer's in France and Germany and their consumption in the autumn amongst other things. Bockbier is much older than the logic that provides the first explanation. There is no conclusive answer but if you can read Dutch plenty more fascinating details to ruminate on while cycling in the 'bokzone'!
Posted by Faith | TrackBack