SOQ3 2021: Oktoberfest

Congratulations to our winners of this SOQ:

–1st place Adam Bradley with Festbier

–2nd place Nick Facciola with Festbier

–3rd place Sam Kopp with Märzen

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This Q3 we will feature two German lagers that are heavily consumed during the world’s largest beer festival, Oktoberfest! Oktoberfest beer denotes two distinct beer styles that are known for being highly drinkable by the liter: a traditional Märzen lager and a paler Festbier that is now more commonly served. Commercial Oktoberfest beers found in the US are generally of the Märzen style.

Because this SOQ features lager beers, we announced a month early (June) and will close the competition a month late (October 31).

6A: Märzen
An elegant, malty German amber lager with a clean, rich, toasty and bready malt flavor, restrained bitterness, and a dry finish that encourages another drink. The overall malt impression is soft, elegant, and complex, with a rich aftertaste that is never cloying or heavy.

4B: Festbier
A smooth, clean, pale German lager with a moderately strong malty flavor and a light hop character. Deftly balances strength and drinkability, with a palate impression and finish that encourages drinking. Showcases elegant German malt flavors without becoming too heavy or filling.

Slides about these styles forthcoming from the July 8 technical talk with Paul L of East Brother Beer Co.

Have fun making this style in Q3. If you feel like submitting the beer for our friendly, internal competition and/or constructive feedback, please submit 2 clean, unmarked bottles labeled with the BJCP bottle ID form affixed to either Ian’s bottle-share box or OakBarrel by the end of October.