Spaten Oktoberfest
I’ve had the glass in the above photo for just over 6 years now. I’ve had several Oktoberfest style brews in it over that time period. This, however, is the first time that I’ve had the opportunity to enjoy its namesake with its confines — it’s oddly tough to find this brew in shops.
Self-proclaimed as the first Oktoberfest beer to ever be brewed, Spaten’s Oktoberfest is a 5.9% ABV Marzen that’s chock full of caramel malts and just enough of a hop presence to temper the light sweetness. While it’s not necessarily my Oktoberfest brew, it’s still a standard in terms of what I want in the style.
Appearance
Browning copper in color, the beer sits with a billowy, off-white head that fell slowly to a patchy surface lace.
Aroma
All malts with hints of caramel, bread, grassy hops and an earthiness. Smells just like it should.
Taste
The flavors are right in line with the aroma. Caramel malts with a light sweetness and grain fill the mouth first as hints of fruit come in before shifting smoothly to a lightly hopped and fairly dry finish. The beer drinks easily and is quite refreshing.
Overall
I prefer Hacker-Pschorr’s Oktoberfest a touch more, but I can certainly see myself enjoying a few glasses of this beer on the deck. It’s got just enough richness and hops to stay balanced and easy drinking.
Rating: 3.75/5