Märzen / Oktoberfest Bier

The Märzen is an amber-orange to deep reddish-copper colored malty German amber lager with a clean, rich, toasty and bready malt flavor, restrained bitterness, and a dry finish. The overall malt impression is soft, elegant, and complex, with a rich aftertaste that is never cloying or heavy. Most American versions of Oktoberfest Bier are generally based on this style, and most will recognize this beer as Oktoberfest. Not as strong and rich as a Dunkles Bock. More malt depth and richness than an Oktoberfest bier, with a heavier body and slightly less hops. Less hoppy and equally malty as a Czech Amber Lager. The traditional Oktoberfest Bier, often simply called Festier, is yellow to deep gold color, less intense and less richly toasted than a Märzen but with a richer body than a Helles, with more hop flavor and higher alcohol. Less rich in malt intensity than a Maibock. The malt complexity is similar to a Czech Pilsener, although without the associated hops.