Schlafly Oktoberfest is a traditional Bavarian Märzen-style lager brewed by the St. Louis, Missouri-based Schlafly Beer. This beer is a perfect way to celebrate the arrival of fall that combines toasty malt flavors with a smooth and slightly sweet finish.
The recipe for this copper-colored beer dates back to 1991 when Tom Schlafly, nephew of the late Phyllis Schlafly, co-founded the brewery in St. Louis. This lager is made with German noble hops and fermented cold and slow for an incredibly smooth finish. The aroma offers notes of toasted malt and caramel, while the flavor showcases a balance of roasted malts and subtle hop bitterness.
Schlafly's Oktoberfest has become a favorite amongst beer enthusiasts in recent years thanks to its easy drinking nature and traditional flavor profile. It pairs perfectly with fall favorites such as roasted brats, sauerkraut, and pretzels! The 6% ABV makes it ideal for sipping on during cool autumn evenings or sharing amongst friends at your favorite Oktoberfest inspired event!
To ensure maximum freshness, the brewery recommends drinking Schlafly Oktoberfest within four months after bottling. However, many fans continue to enjoy this seasonal brew well past that time frame – including some who stil have 2010 bottles stored away!
If you're looking for a great way to celebrate the arrival of fall this year, look no further than Schlafly's Oktoberfest Märzen-style lager – you won't be disappointed!
Tasting Schlafly Oktoberfest Beer
Schlafly Oktoberfest has a toasty malt aroma and a slight caramel taste. Its rich, amber hue is balanced by the subtle bitterness of German noble hops. The lager yeast ferments cold and slow, making for a smooth and crisp beer that's easy to drink. You'll get notes of biscuity malt, sweet caramel, and light hop bitterness for a full flavor that's sure to please.
The Best Oktoberfest Beer: Who Makes It?
When it coes to Oktoberfest beer, there is no one definitive answer as to who makes the best. Different regions have different styles of Oktoberfest beer that can be enjoyed by many. Some of the most renowned producers of Oktoberfest beer include Germany's Spaten and Shiner, and US-based breweries such as Left Hand, Victory, Rosenstadt and Green Bench. German-style Oktoberfest beers tend to be deep golden in color with a malty sweetness and a crisp finish, while US-made versions often feature Germany's traditional lager yeast with hop varieties native to the US. Ultimately, the best Oktoberfest beer for you will depend on your personal tastes and preferences.
How Long Does Schlafly Beer Last?
Schlafly beer can be enjoyed up to four months after the bottling date. That being said, many Schlafly fans enjoy our beers for much longer than that! For optimal freshness, it is best to store your Schlafly beer in a cool, dark place and consume it within 4 months of purchase. If you are looking to save Schlafly beers for a special occasion or tasting event, we recommend that you purchase an extra case each year and wait until the next fall to crack it open. Some fans even keep our Pumpkin Ale from years past!
The Taste of a Märzen Beer
Märzen is a type of German lager known for its slightly sweet malty aroma and flavor. It has a light to medium body and a golden-amber hue. The maltiness is the most prominent flavor, with notes of nutty, toasted bread and hints of caramel. The hops are mild, providing just a touch of bitterness to balance out the sweetness from the malt. The finish is clean and crisp with a lingering malty aftertaste. Märzen is often enjoyed during Oktoberfest as well as throughout the year.
Difference Between Märzen and Oktoberfest
The main difference between Märzen and Oktoberfest is the legal terminology behind the names. According to the 2015 Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP), Märzen is a traditional lager beer style with some specific parameters, such as an amber to copper color, a moderate to full body, a sweet malty aroma and flavor with low hop bitterness. On the other hand, Oktoberfestbier or simply Oktoberfest is a term that refers to those beers brewed within or around Munich for the annual Oktoberfest celebration. While any beer that meets the BJCP guidelines for Märzen could be considered an Oktoberfestbier, only those brewed in Munich may legally use the name Oktoberfest. Thus, while they are ultimately the same brews, only beers brewed in Munich can be labeled as “Oktoberfest.”
The Popularity of Oktoberfest Beer
Paulaner's Oktoberest Bier is widely considered to be the most popular beer served at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. It is a light bodied and malty lager with an ABV of 6.3%. This beer is perfectly suited for the two week long celebration as its mild flavor and easy drinkability make it extremely popular among festival-goers. Paulaner's Oktoberest Bier has been served at Oktoberfest for over 200 years, making it a timeless tradition enjoyed by many each year.
Conclusion
Schlafly Oktoberfest is a unique and delicious beer that has beome a staple of the fall season. This traditional Bavarian Märzen lager boasts an inviting toasty malt aroma, slight caramel taste and is balanced by German noble hops. It's cold fermentation process creates a smooth, crisp beer that is perfect for celebrating the cooler weather. Thanks to its co-founders Tom Schlafly and Phyllis Schlafly, this beer has achieved distinctiveness in regards to beer, making it even more enjoyable for those who try it. Whether you are looking for a cold beer to enjoy with friends or just want to savor the flavors of fall, Schlafly Oktoberfest is an excellent option.
