October is a wonderful month. Fall colors are popping, sweatshirt weather begins and most importantly Oktoberfest beers are everywhere! For me, there’s nothing better than enjoying a stein of deep, amber, malty goodness as a polka band in lederhosen plays “Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit”.

Recently, the term “Oktoberfest” has become an umbrella term for any beer released from late August through October that celebrates the German celebration. I don’t mind that, but it can be confusing because there are actually two main styles of beer that Oktoberfest revelers enjoy. Here’s a quick explanation of the different styles

Festbier vs. Marzen

Marzen was the original Oktoberfest beer. Traditionally it was brewed in March, which in German is “Marz” (see where this is going?). After brewing the beer was stored in cellars or kegs to keep it at a steady, cool temperature to aid in bacteria growth. By the time Oktoberfest came around, the beer was ready and the kegs were tapped.

What makes a beer a Marzen? Here’s a definition:

“Märzen has a rich and toasty malt character. Caramel and toffee notes, as well as a toasty aroma, can sometimes be detected. This flavor is attributed to the use of Vienna malt, which is not commonly used in everyday brewing.

The color of the beer usually ranges from deep gold to light copper and the alcohol content is usually between 5-6.5% ABV. To further differentiate it from other German beers, Märzen is sometimes served in a one-liter ceramic mug.”

Festbier is a lager. Instead of a deep amber color, it is a light golden color with a lower ABV making it more “cushable” for a long day of festing.

Here’s a more technical description:

“Festbier is a strong golden German lager with great, long-lasting white head. It has traits similar to Helles and Maibock – malty backbone, spicy and floral hop bite, moderately full body and a dry finish. The ABV is 6-6.5%. 

Festbier was pioneered by Paulaner, especially to be served for Oktoberfest. Eventually all the other breweries allowed to serve on the Wiesn made their own versions and today Festbier is THE lager exclusively brewed for and served at the annual Oktoberfest celebration.”

Now you know the difference between the styles that will enhance your Oktoberfest celebrations, but no matter which beer you choose, you’ve made a great choice. grab a bratwurst and a pretzel. Pull on your lederhosen or dirndl and raise a stein to the most glorious time on the beer calendar! Prost!!

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