Ayinger Oktober Fest-Märzen

It's never too early to celebrate!

By JASON + TODD ALSTRÖM

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Like fashion designers, brewers seem quick to release their seasonal beers to get a jump start on the market and be well-entrenched by the time the actual season comes around. Take Ayinger's Oktober Fest-Märzen from the Bavarian village of Aying in Germany. It launched in July to ensure it was available throughout the US by August 1, more than ready for Oktoberfest season (which runs from September 20-October 5 this year).

Today, the Märzen and Oktoberfest styles are more or less interchangeable. Märzen, which means "March" in German, are brewed in March, matured during the summer months and consumed in the early fall—or, to celebrate the marriage of Prince Ludwig of Bavaria to Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen in 1810. This later became known as the famous Munich Oktoberfest and eventually one of the largest celebrations of beer and culture on earth with over six million visitors and over 1.8 million gallons of beer consumed.

That said, many modern Oktoberfest beers have become a bit bastardized and dumbed down to appeal to more palates. But there's nothing better than a fresh Bavarian fest lager, and we're not talking about some basic lager or wannabe ale with "Oktoberfest" slapped on the label, but a real lager with some meat on its bones. Something worthy to hoist in the air with friends in celebration! Speaking of which ...

The Taste

Ayinger's version pours a rich golden color. Froth is thick, settling to a worthy lacing. Aroma is soft with fresh grains in the nose and a faint herbal hop note. Smooth on the palate and creamy with a light fluffiness. Tight carbonation, but held at bay by a base of malty sweetness, a drop of caramel and toastiness. This fills out the body a bit too. Hops? More tea-like with a steeped herbal quality that's tightly wound within the malty showcase (versus having a hoppy bite). Suggestions of banana and vanilla hidden within the sweetness. Pith. A bit drying toward the finish with a cereal graininess and lingering toasty sweetness.

Final Thoughts

German lagers like these are often overlooked—yes, we still think the world needs more lagers! This is a classic, exceptional and flavorful alternative for the ongoing lightening of the celebratory Märzen.

And, if by chance you ever find yourself near the town of Aying, a visit is a must! We had the pleasure last October and highly recommend it. The brewery is visitor-friendly and actually designed for people to wander about; plus, they have a viewing room upstairs where you can learn more about the history of the brewery, an amazing bar where you can try their brews (and special Germany-only selections) and a guest house down the road to grab some grub in style. Prost!

FOR MORE INFO: EN.AYINGER-BIER.DE

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RESPECT BEER.