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Pete Garofalo's picture

Oktoberfest-Märzen

Judges Rating: 
93
Aroma: 
23 / 24
Appearance: 
6 / 6
Flavor: 
38 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
8 / 10
Overall Impression: 
18 / 20

The relatively pale color belies the malt intensity as an aroma of rich, toasty Vienna malt wafts up, inviting deeper scrutiny. Layers of malt suggest bread crust, graham crackers, and grainy malt with a suggestion of molasses. A hint of fl oral hops contributes to a delicate balance. The malty yet dry taste is balanced by modest hop bitterness and a hint of hop flavor. The finish is dried somewhat by a wash of alcohol warmth, and the aftertaste persists with lightly nutty, toasty malt that displays an impressive depth, complexity, and staying power. A pure expression of lightly kilned malts, this is a well-crafted festbier and a great counterpoint to the many hop-driven styles in the craft aisle.