Grab Your Maßkrug, It's Oktoberfest Time!

GABF is over, but the biggest beer event in the world is just getting started.  Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany started this year September 18 and goes to October 3.  Oktoberfest originated in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig von Bayern and Princess Therese von Sachen-Hildburghausen.  As this is the 200 year anniversary of the fest, I imagine it's quite a bit crazier than usual.  More beer, more pretzels, and more women women wearing Dirndls in their bosomy glory.  If you can't make it to Germany, there is still plenty of opportunity to celebrate locally.

Tin Mill Brewery in Hermann, MO hosts Oktoberfest events the first four weekends of October.  Hermann has a strong German heritage, to the whole town participates.  This is probably the best fest in Missouri.
Crown Valley Brewing in Sainte Genevieve, MO is holding an Oktoberfest Weekend celebration September 25-26.
Soulard Oktoberfest will be October 8-10 on Lyon Park in Saint Louis.
The Lee's Summit Chamber of Commerce host an Oktoberfest event September 24-25.
Saint Charles, MO hosts their Oktoberfest September 24-26

The traditional Oktoberfest beer is a Märzen, a darker copper colored lager, though lighter golden Helles Lagers are also common.  Most American craft brewers will put out a seasonal Oktoberfest beer.  Boulevard has their Bob's 47.  Schlafly has their appropriately named Oktoberfest.  Both very good, but I wanted to go more traditional to celebrate the 200th year anniversary.

OK, I'm not going to lie.  I got the Paulaner Wiesn Bier because it came with a krug. 

I'm a sucker for glassware, and this was a no brainer.  For about $13 you get a liter can of beer and a heavy duty glass mug, or krug.  The solid, dimpled mug is perfect for clanking together.  If I can't go to Germany, I will have my own little fest at home.

I had to be gentle pouring in the last few ounces from the can.  The head is a bright white soapy foam.  The head recedes quickly, not leaving much in the way of lacing.  Color is a bright and clear golden straw yellow.  Lots of carbonation activity going on.  Color-wise, this is more in line with a Helles than a Märzen

Smell has a clean grassy hops mixed with a fresh bready malt.  Very clean and very inviting.  The taste is clean as well.  A mild toastiness mixes with the green grass to create a solid balance. 

The mouthfeel has a light touch of carbonation.  It verges on creamy without that filling feeling.  This is the kind of beer you can use to wash down a big meal, or drink in mass quantities.  Perfect for 'Festing.