Every year, the culture dwellers wait for the world’s biggest beer festival – Oktoberfest. Basically, it originated in Munich, Germany, but has not expanded to many countries in the world. These days, it has become a folk festival that is celebrated with vibrant traditions, lively gatherings, and the iconic Oktoberfest beer. Bavarian cuisine, Oktoberfest beer, and the cultural nuance together make an authentic vibe of the fest.
If you are curious about the Oktoberfest beer and its related aspects, you are in the right spot. In this blog, we will deep dive into the history, brewing techniques, and cultural value of the brews. Undoubtedly, besides the other factors, brews take a central space during this folk festival.
The Roots of Oktoberfest
Back in 1810, Oktoberfest was celebrated as the wedding celebration of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig. The locals were invited to Munich in front of the city gates to partake in this vibrant and lively fun. Later on, the heartiest acceptance and aesthetics of Oktoberfest made it evolve into a global cultural phenomenon. In this way, what started as a one-time celebration has evolved into a 16-day-long festival celebrated annually.
Besides Germany, Oktoberfest attracts millions of beer lovers from around the world. To be very clear, the heart and soul of this festival lies in the beer. Yes! You read it right. The Oktoberfest beer is a special beer that is made using cultural techniques. That is why it follows strict guidelines to pass on the official title with passing years.
Märzen Lager: The Oktoberfest Brew That Defines The Fest
Märzen Lager, or the Oktoberfest Beer, holds a place at the heart of this world-renowned folk festival. Like Oktoberfest, the history of the special beer is also quite old. It dates back to the 16th century. In German, the word Märzen means “March,” signifying the month when these authentic beers were brewed using traditional techniques.
Back then, there was no advent of refrigeration. So, brewing in summer was prohibited as it could cause bacterial contamination. For that reason, brewing in March ensured the supply in the summer months.
How Does Märzen Lager Look Like?
A clean and malty taste characterizes Oktoberfest beer. It comes in amber to reddish-brown hue. Traditionally, the beer offers a subtle bitterness complementing the malt-forward character. It features a balanced hop profile. The overall complexity of this special beer is made possible by the use of German noble hops that impart a mild spiciness to it.
Just like every other component of Oktoberfest, Oktoberfest beer is also a whole cultural experience. The color, aroma, and taste, every single attribute of this cultural brew, reflect tradition in any way. Being traditional, the essence of this beer is its simplicity, which makes it very special. In a world of technology where everything is available in various variations, strict German traditional techniques are used to craft this beer.
How can you challenge the quality and experience, then?
The Traditional Art of Brewing Oktoberfest Beer
Oktoberfest is not a factory product; it is a very special Bavarian beer brewed using traditional German techniques. That is why it requires strict adherence to the Beer Purity Law dating back to the 16th century. This law makes it obligatory to use hops, water, malted barley, and yeast only in the beer. For that reason, the simplicity of ingredients makes it possible to create a flavourful and well-balanced beer.
In the beginning, malted barley is kilned to get the desired maltiness and color. The hops used in it are sourced from Bavaria to impart a delicate aroma and bitterness to it.
In the next step, German lager yeast enters the recipe and gives a crisp and clean finish to the beer. Lastly, the brew undergoes a lagering process, which is a cold conditioning phase. It contributes to the clarity and smoothness of beer.
The Oktoberfest Vibe: Where Beer, Tradition, and Fashion Rock
Besides the appealing color and exceptional taste, Märzen Lager is deeply integrated with tradition and fashion. At the Oktoberfest festival, the beer tents, live traditional music, and Bavarian traditional attire create a lively atmosphere along with the chatter of revelers.
The spirit of this cultural phenomenon is the sense of community that makes locals and visitors have fun alike. Tourists and locals participate in the Prost tradition, which is raising the steins full of beer and sharing an exciting and hearty “Cheers!”
Global Impact On The Märzen Lager
Originally, the Oktoberfest beer was originated in Munich, Germany. Yet its fame has expanded beyond orders. Global breweries have embraced the style of Märzen Lager by creating their own interpretations. In particular, the breweries have put their spin on this authentic and classic brew while trying different hops, malts, and yeast stains. This experimentation and innovation has resulted in a series of beers that are Oktoberfest-inspired. Now, they range from traditional to bold.
Many variations, yet the actual product remains at the top of the list. Don’t just listen to them, go, try!
Final Verdict
In an era of different beer festivals, Oktoberfest holds a special place. It is a cultural phenomenon enduring an allure of community, tradition, and an outstanding beer. The best Oktoberfest beer has a centuries-old legacy that serves as the beat of this annual celebration. No doubt, this is the special and magical beer that brings people together. By doing so, it fosters a sense of community and transcends borders. And it truly embodies the actual spirit of Oktoberfest, which means partying together.
Take some time out of your busy schedule for yourself and visit Germany for Oktoberfest this year. At Munich, you will get a chance to enjoy this simple yet tasteful beer.
And trust us, your tastebuds will feel blessed!
