The celebration of Oktoberfest came about when Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig celebrated his engagement in 1810. That festival has morphed into what is now known as Oktoberfest and brewers the world over bring us their delicious takes on the German Märzen style brew. Brooklyn Brewery produces their own Oktoberfest and that is up for review today.
Brooklyn Oktoberfest pours a reddish amber or slightly copper color with a foamy, white head that stood about two fingers at its height. The aroma is one of malt and grain with some bread notes mixed in. There is also a note of sweetness, like a caramel or toffee fragrance that is minimal.
Malt and bread play heavily in the first sip. There is a touch of sweetness, one the backend. There is a slightly moderate amount of carbonation but the beer feels light on the tongue. It is light, smooth, and has a slightly bitter touch on the backend that makes you want to go in for another sip. The glass has minimal lacing as it drinks, which was surprising for the robust head, but the taste stays consistent throughout the session.
Overall this is a good beer. If you like Märzen-style beers then you should enjoy this one. Will it knock your socks off? No. But it is a beer you can easily enjoy, and at 5.5% ABV this can make a nice companion for those fall football games, weekend outings to pick apples or pumpkins, or for that Halloween party. Like most Oktoberfest offerings the biggest knock on this brew is that it is only offered in the fall.