Today, I thought I would get started trying some of the Oktoberfests that I have in my possession.  The first one I’m going to sample is the Spaten Oktoberfest from the Spaten-Franziskaner-Brau located in Munich, Germany.

We all know about the Fall seasonals, so let’s get right to the description of this beer from the website, spatenusa.com.

Spaten Oktoberfest Beer, created in 1872, is the world’s first Oktoberfest beer, brewed for the greatest folk festival in the world.  Every year, over and over again, countless Oktoberfest visitors share their enthusiasm about this beer. 

Let’s pour this thing.

This Oktoberfest has an ABV of 5.5% and comes in a 12 oz. bottle.

The beer poured a clear, copper/amber color with some burnt orange highlights showing through around the bottom of the glass.  The crown was a very light tan color, not enormous in size nor did it have very good retention, but the lacing looked ok.

As I leaned in for a whiff, I immediately noticed a prevalent grass and grain profile accompanied by a very light caramel malt.  Further fragrances of corn husk and wheat bread gave the aroma a touch more complexity, but overall I didn’t find it to be as robust as I thought it might be.

The taste provided more of the grassy hops and grainy malt at the beginning.  The caramel malt seemed to hide underneath until the brew started to warm, then the sweetness started to poke through a bit more.  Some “earthy” hops gave the savor a touch of kick and the breadiness helped to round it out.  The flavor was nice, even and fresh, yet not too complex or robust.

The mouthfeel was medium, fairly dry, smooth and crisp.  A nice bit of flavor was left behind on the palate too.  Not bad in that regard.

Well, this drink does put me in the mood for the Fall season, however I thought it was going to be a little more forthcoming in the aroma and taste.  Nothing outstanding or over-the-top, yet nothing horrid or off-putting either.  It had quite a few of the proper characteristics, but they weren’t forceful enough for me.  It’s easily drinkable and would make for a great little session brew on a cool, crisp, Fall afternoon, although better Oktoberfests are out there in my opinion.  It’s still a fun, enjoyable drink and worth a try if you see it though.

Thanks for reading everyone.  I really appreciate it.

Cheers.

Score:  3.5 out of 5
Grade:  B-