Ahnapee Brewery Owner & Head Brewer Nick Calaway Talks Ahnapee Oktoberfest

We spokle with Ahnapee Brewery Owner & Head Brewer Nick Calaway about Ahnapee Oktoberfest.

BC: Who came up with this beer’s recipe?
I created this recipe.

BC: What’s your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, etc.)?
Our Oktoberfest strikes a great balance of hops and malt. We use all German malt and hops in the Oktoberfest, and we do our best to mimic the water and yeast profiles as well. The result is a very drinkable and smooth Märzen with subtle complexities from aroma to finish.

BC: Can you describe this beer in 10 words or less?
Award-winning and true-to-style Märzen.

BC: Do you know a story – or have a personal story – that revolves around this beer?
It's always been interesting to tell customers that we get malt and hops that were grown in Germany. We get mixed reactions as some customers are confused that we don't purchase it "locally." Seeing that the beer style isn't local to the U.S., to make it as authentic as possible, we choose to use ingredients sourced from the area in which the style originated.

BC: What's a good food pairing for this beer?
Our Oktoberfest is a bit lighter in malt balance, lighter-weight foods pair best. Grilled brats (a Wisconsin favorite), and leaner meats like chicken and pork chops complement well. Crackers and a young cheese or lightly topped pizzas help bring out the toasted malt notes of the Märzen as well.

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