Leinenkugel is a popular brewery and its millions of devotees swear by its name. This brewery offers some good beer products that span a wide range of styles. This Wisconsin- based brewing operation has its share of seasonal beers and one of them was released just a short time ago. The beer is Leinenkugel Oktoberfest, a Fall beer brewed in the marzen tradition.
Beer Bio:
Style: Marzen
Alcohol Level: 5.1 Percent by Volume
Calories: 170 per 12 oz. serving
Carbs: 17.8 grams
Poured into a glass, Leinenkugel Oktoberfest is a beer with an average appearance. It is perfectly clear and it manages to maintain a thin layer of foam as you drink. It offers a nose that is slightly roasted and caramel- like, with malt notes making themselves knonw. The dominant flavors include nuts, toasted malt, caramel, and grains and the beer finishes with a taste that is bitter and a little watery.
I enjoy the change of seasons because it means that new and often unique beer is on the way. Marzen styles, however, are not among my favorites but I will still seek them out and I have found some that are exceptionally tasty. Leinenkugel Oktoberfest, unfortunately, isn’t one of the best examples of the marzen style. I like the nutty character and I can see how this beer would match up nicely with German fare. But there isn’t anything incredible or very exciting about this malt beverage. In this respect, it is very similar to other Leinenkugel products. You take a few sips and all you can think about is the average quality and how much better it could have been with a little work.
So, Leinenkugel Oktoberfest isn’t very impressive. But does this make it a bas beer that should be avoided at all costs? The short answer to that question is no. This beer offers an agreeable taste and I like the nutty character most of all, even though I can think of several nutty beer products that offer better taste and character. The problem is that this beer is very average. Nothing stands out as impressive or memorable.
Leinenkugel Oktoberfest is sold from August through October each year and it ranks as a decent attempt to create a marzen beer. I have no intention of seeking out another six pack because there are many marzen products that offer better flavor and quality. Still, I think it offers decent enough taste to try it out, even if only once, during the Fall season.
Rating: 5 Cheers out of 10
