I can’t help myself, I get very excited about all things fall – and as a consequence, start drinking Oktoberfests as soon as they appear. So I was happy to see Ayinger Oktoberfest on the draft list at my local uber-beer garden. While Ayinger isn’t one of the original Fests from 1810, it’s still regarded as a classic. It all started well, as it was a beautiful copper fest-color, with an even head. But when I started drinking it, I was a bit disappointed. It was just okay. There was a nice malt balance, and not too much spice, but there was just a slightly off, funky taste. It was also hoppier than I expected. While this beer wasn’t bad, it wasn’t what I’d hoped for either. I’d be very interested in trying it in Germany, as I’m wondering if it’s an American-issue version, or just somehow didn’t survive the journey intact. I’m glad I started with my Oktoberfest season with it, as hopefully things will only continue to get better!
- Beer Name: Oktoberfest-Marzen
- Brewer: Ayinger Brewery
- Aying, Bavaria, Germany
- Price: $6
- ABV: 5.6%
- Rating: 2
