Märzen / Oktoberfest
Derived from the Vienna style, the Märzen /Oktoberfest beer style sometimes offers similar taste and feel. Known as “Märzenbier,” German for “March beer,” it was developed in the 1840s, before refrigeration and was traditionally brewed in spring and stored in cool cellars for consumption over the warmer summer months. Remaining supplies of Märzenbier were then consumed during Oktoberfest celebrations. The color ranges from clear deep golden to orange-red, with a foamy off-white head. Vienna and/or Munich malts contribute to the darker hue and characteristic toasty malt sweetness, and background Noble hop bitterness keeps it from being cloying. With malt character potentially rich and complex, the style exhibits a clean, smooth lager character. While some are available year-round, most beers of this style are only available seasonally to ring in the fall months.
Shop Oktoberfest Beer
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Taste/Smell | Malty, Sweet, Toasty, Smooth, Medium-bodied |
| Alcohol-by-Volume (ABV) Range | 5.0 – 6.5% |
| Bitterness (IBU) | 18-30 |
| Popular Examples | Spaten Oktoberfest Ur Märzen, Paulaner Oktoberfest, Hacker Pschorr Oktoberfest, Hofbräu Oktoberfestbier, Samuel Adams Octoberfest Märzen, Flying Dog DOGtoberfest Märzen, Heavy Seas Märzen |
| Serving Temperature | Cool, 46-54° |
| Glassware | Pint or Nonic, Beer Mug |
| Cheese Pairing Ideas | Emmental, Gruyère, Jalapeno Jack |
| Food Pairing Ideas | Mexican and other hearty, spicy chicken, sausage and pork dishes |
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