For today’s craft beer review I thought we would “journey” back to Munich, Germany and sample the Hofbrau Original brewed by Staatliches Hofbrauhaus (Hofbrau Munchen).

This is a beer that I’ve had many times and have always enjoyed, but for some reason, have never written a formal review.  Well, today is the day for that, so let’s not procrastinate any longer.

Here’s the brewer’s description of the Hofbrau Original from the website, hofbraeu-muenchen.de.

Hofbrauhaus is a symbol of Munich’s hospitality and the Bavarian gift for creating a snug and cosy atmosphere.  Beer-lovers from all over the world come here to enjoy its famous beers.  

More than any other, Hofbrau Original embodies the special atmosphere of the beer-making capital of Munich, and exports it to the four corners of the globe.  Its refreshing, bitter flavour and alcoholic content of around 5.1% volume have made it famous worldwide.  A Munich beer with character.

Let’s have a taste.

The Hofbrau Original poured from an 11.2 oz. bottle and it had an ABV of 5.1%.

The appearance of this beer was a very clear, light gold to straw yellow color.  A nicely sized, bright white, soapy, fluffy head stood atop the liquid.  It maintained it’s size for a few moments then dissipated to a slick looking film right on top.  The foam left a some patchy lacing on the sides that looked pretty nice.  Nothing outstanding, but fair enough.

With the nose, the brew had a very distinct grainy, grassy hop fragrance combined with a clean “white” breadiness.  Hints of fresh crackers and earthy goodness swirl about in the bouquet.  The aroma was of medium strength and balanced very well.

In the taste, I, again, received very clean bready malts and fresh grains.  Some light grassy hops brought out a welcomed tone of bitterness.  Through the middle, I detected a slight corn flavor.  Something similar to freshly cut “corn silage” I thought.  It helped add a touch of sweetness and balanced the overall profile.

The mouthfeel was medium, crisp, prickly, refreshing and thirst quenching.  It was quite smooth and dry with good carbonation.  This beer left substantially more flavor on the palate than I remember.  It coated the tongue, roof of the mouth and throat considerably.

This is a very good, solid beer.  I had forgotten how nice it is.  It’s a super easy drink that would be perfect for the warmer months.  It’s a well made brew with plenty of character and complexity to satisfy most any craft beer drinker.  I, honestly, think that it could be thoroughly enjoyed by “macro” drinkers too!!!   For sure, if you have not had it, give it a try if you see it.  I’ll try not to wait so long before my next go round with the Hofbrau Original.

Thanks for reading and commenting.  I really appreciate it. 

Thanks for all the support also!!!

Cheers!!!

Score:  3.9 out of 5
Grade:  B+