What is a distinguishing feature of a dunkles weissbier compared to a standard weissbier?

A dunkles weissbier is characterized by the inclusion of dark malts, which significantly differentiates it from a standard weissbier. While both styles share the common characteristic of being wheat beers, the use of dark malts in dunkles weissbier gives it a deeper color and contributes to richer flavors, such as hints of caramel, toffee, and even chocolate. This contrasts with the lighter, often more fruity or estery flavors of standard weissbier, which typically emphasizes pale malts.

The other options do not accurately define the distinguishing feature of dunkles weissbier. While hops are present in beers across styles, their absence is not a defining feature. The use of spices is not standard in either style; instead, traditional weissbiers (both standard and dunkles) often highlight the yeast-derived flavors rather than added spices. Lastly, although some beers may be lagered, dunkles weissbier is classified as an ale, primarily fermented at warmer temperatures typical of wheat beers, rather than being exclusively lagered. This reinforces why the incorporation of dark malt is the key differentiation point for dunkles weissbier.