Oktoberfest is not a specific type of beer, but rather a festival held in Munich, Germany, that celebrates beer. During Oktoberfest, a special type of beer called Oktoberfestbier is traditionally served. However, it is important to note that the term “Oktoberfest beer” is often used loosely to refer to any beer that is brewed in the style of the traditional Oktoberfestbier.
Formally, Oktoberfestbier is defined as a beer brewed by one of the six big Munich breweries that are allowed to serve their product on the grounds of the Oktoberfest. These breweries include Augustiner-Bräu, Hacker-Pschorr, Paulaner, Spaten, Hofbräu, and Löwenbräu. They have a long history of brewing beer for the festival and are considered the official providers of Oktoberfest beer.
These breweries follow the Reinheitsgebot, or German Beer Purity Law, which dictates that beer can only be brewed using water, malt, hops, and yeast. Oktoberfestbier is typically a Märzen-style lager, which means it is a medium to full-bodied, amber-colored beer with a malty flavor profile. It has a rich, toasty malt character with a clean, crisp finish. The alcohol content is usually around 5-6% ABV.
The brewing process for Oktoberfestbier is quite specific. The beer is traditionally brewed in March (hence the name Märzen), and then lagered (aged) in cold storage for several months. This results in a well-rounded and smooth beer that is ready to be enjoyed in the fall during Oktoberfest.
Outside of Munich, any brewery that wants to create a beer in the style of Oktoberfestbier must label it as an Oktoberfest-style beer or Märzen-style beer. These beers may vary in flavor and character, as different breweries may add their own twists to the traditional recipe. However, they will generally share similarities with the official Oktoberfestbier, such as the use of traditional ingredients and the amber color.
In recent years, craft breweries around the world have embraced Oktoberfest as a celebration of beer and have created their own versions of Oktoberfest-style beers. These beers often pay homage to the traditional Märzen style but may incorporate local ingredients or brewing techniques to add a unique touch.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste a wide variety of Oktoberfest beers, both from the official Munich breweries and from craft breweries. I find that the traditional Oktoberfestbier has a distinct maltiness that is balanced by a clean hop bitterness. It pairs well with hearty, German-style dishes such as sausages, pretzels, and sauerkraut.
While Oktoberfest is not a specific type of beer, it is closely associated with the traditional Oktoberfestbier brewed by the six big Munich breweries. Any other beer brewed in the style of Oktoberfestbier can be considered an Oktoberfest-style beer. These beers range in flavor and character, but they generally share the amber color and malty profile of the traditional Märzen-style lagers. So, whether you are enjoying an Oktoberfestbier in Munich or trying a craft brewery's take on the style, you can raise your glass and toast to the rich history and celebration of beer that is Oktoberfest.