Beer Stats:

Packaging: 12 oz. bottle

BJCP Style: German Marzen

ABV: 5.3%

Hops Variety: Tettnang Tettnanger, Hallertau Mittelfrueh

Malts Variety: 2 Row Pale, Munich 10, Caramel 60

Brewery:  Samuel Adams Brewery – Boston, MA

Beer Connoisseur Rating: None

LUDB Notes:

• Bitterness Level: Low
• Drinkability:
  • Would I purchase again? Yes
  • Would I stock it? Yes
• Comments/Characteristics:  A very well crafted, enjoyable beer. It may be slightly outside the style box; but that does not detract from the beer at all.

Don’t you just love the fall?  Leave changing, weather cooling down, and then there is…Oktoberfest beer!  I’ll admit that I have yet to meet an Oktoberfest beer (or Marzen) that I did like.  Samuel Adams Octoberfest beer is no exception to that sentiment.  So, let’s dive right in.

This limited release Oktoberfest beer pours a beautiful, dark amber color that is perfectly clear.  A perfect pour will produce a nice big, white fluffy head three fingers tall with tight compact bubbles.  If you drink this straight out of the bottle, shame on you!  You’re missing out on the visually pleasing experience of this Marzen.  Aromas are bready, light toast and a slight herbal presence.  Flavors are sweet, malty toast and hint of caramel.  The mouthfeel is lightly carbonated, creamy and soft.  Finish sweet and short with very low bitterness.

Bottom line:  Samuel Adams Octoberfest misses a few style check boxes.  There is a slight caramel flavor and the color is darker than what you would expect from a traditional Marzen; but that’s okay.  This is a smooth, malty Oktoberfest beer that is quite enjoyable to drink.

Thanks for reading, and until next time…Let Us Drink Beer!