Draft Magazine Feed: Oktoberbest options…again
We’re a week deep into October, and the seasonal beer is now flowing stateside for we sad Americans, plagued by a crappy economy and unable to fly to Germany for Oktoberfest. We did, however, taste two Oktoberfest beers that might make you forget your worries; herewith, our tasting notes.
Gordon Biersch FestBier
You can’t go wrong with this Oktoberfest: It pours a classic copper color with a gigantic, pillowy head that actually makes noise when you slosh it… perfect for clinking and “Prost!”-ing with fellow revelers. The aroma is tame with a touch of malt, and the fresh, toasted malt flavors are spot-on for the style. A really clean, smooth mouthfeel makes this a go-to seasonal.
New Glarus Staghorn Octoberfest
One of the more complex Oktoberfests we’ve tasted, Staghorn begins with an aroma that’s hot with spice and alcohol but tamed by caramely malt scents. It pours a clear, bright orange with a foamy head. The flavor is malty-sweet but doesn’t go too far — it’s pleasantly less forthcoming than the aroma, and follows with a clean finish. Bonus: It’s made with fresh yeast from Germany. Double bonus: The brew is 100 percent natural — no additives or preservatives.
