stefanberggren (135), Madison, Wisconsin, USA Jan 21, 2004 A really nice example of the true Marzen style. Malty, but not over the top in flavor. Aroma is of toasty grains and malt. Color is spot on and is so clear one, can read the newspaper through a glass. Flavour is smooth and finishes slightly dry (true to style) A really nice job !!! Ughsmash (2958), Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA Nov 28, 2005 12 oz bottle. Poured a clear, sparkly medium orange with a moderate layer of off-white head (receded almost completely after a minute). Aroma had smooth caramel maltage upfront with some floral/vegetal hoppage behind it. Flavor was very enjoyable... autumn-crisp caramel, noble hops, toasty grains, and just a hint of alcohol around the edges. Crisp, yet smooth on the palate, with a nice medium malt backbone. Fairly long finish with fresh caramel and light hop bitterness. One of the best Oktoberfests I’ve tried. jewedekind (450), Middleton, Wisconsin, USA Nov 3, 2004 Nice head with some retention. Very nice orange-red color. Hallerau aroma and some biscuit and honey. Taste is creamy malt. Fine for style, maybe on the big side. Very quaffable. The_Enemy (383), Chicago, USA Nov 19, 2005 Updated: Nov 20, 200512oz bottle, 2005 release. Wow, some harsh reviews and score here. [ EDIT Nov 20th: I now realize all prior reviews refer to the 2004 release, while my rating refers to the 2005 release. ] The only thing I found to complain about was the odd vegetable odor in the aroma. Appearance is perfect for a fest -- briliant pale amber with a medium white head that fades into a whisp on top and a ring around the rim. Dead-on flavor with nice rich sweet caramel-like malt, lightly toasted grain, and light-to-medium hop bitterness. Solid mouthfeel with medium, almost thick palate. Improve the aroma and IMHO it’s easily a top-ten Oktoberfest. JPDIPSO (4210), Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, USA Jan 4, 2005 Take 2 after the last rate was erased by some glitch. Actually past of the Brewers Reserve Series. Bright amber color with a taller big bubbled ecru head. Aromas of toasted malt and toffee and a touch of diacetyl. Rich full flavored malt oozes out. But alas, a touch of diacetyl again. Sweetness well balanced by noble hops. I enjoy this very much as an amber. Lacks the crispness and cleanness of a classic lager. Still a solid effort.
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