Spaten - Optimator
Spaten - Optimator
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.6%
Origin: München, Germany
Dark copper color when held to the light with a tan head that dissipates quickly into a sticky lace. Smells of caramel, toasted malt and some spicy alcohol fumes. Big, viscous body with light carbonation. Taste of toasted, bready malt, caramel and a grainy cereal-like flavor. A light dose of alcohol and hop flavor in the finish. Not as sweet as a Paulaner Salvator and not as hoppy as Ayinger Celebrator; somewhere in between.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Spaten
Photo credit: 99bottlesofbeer99.wordpress.com
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.6%
Origin: München, Germany
Dark copper color when held to the light with a tan head that dissipates quickly into a sticky lace. Smells of caramel, toasted malt and some spicy alcohol fumes. Big, viscous body with light carbonation. Taste of toasted, bready malt, caramel and a grainy cereal-like flavor. A light dose of alcohol and hop flavor in the finish. Not as sweet as a Paulaner Salvator and not as hoppy as Ayinger Celebrator; somewhere in between.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Spaten
Photo credit: 99bottlesofbeer99.wordpress.com
Spaten - Dunkel
Spaten - Dunkel
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.1%
Origin: München, Germany
Poured from 12 oz. bottle into pilsner glass.
Appearance: Translucent brown with sparkling carbonation and a 1-inch head that diminishes quickly into some nice lacing.
Aroma: Bready, malty, with notes of caramel.
Taste: A malty profile with a mild hop presence. Nutty, toasty and sweet without being cloying.
Mouthfeel: Crisp, medium carbonation with a light-to-medium mouthfeel.
Overall: If you love bready, malty, slightly sweet beers, this one should fit the bill perfectly. This beer scored well above my expectations.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Spaten
Photo credit: beerlog.ru
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.1%
Origin: München, Germany
Poured from 12 oz. bottle into pilsner glass.
Appearance: Translucent brown with sparkling carbonation and a 1-inch head that diminishes quickly into some nice lacing.
Aroma: Bready, malty, with notes of caramel.
Taste: A malty profile with a mild hop presence. Nutty, toasty and sweet without being cloying.
Mouthfeel: Crisp, medium carbonation with a light-to-medium mouthfeel.
Overall: If you love bready, malty, slightly sweet beers, this one should fit the bill perfectly. This beer scored well above my expectations.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Spaten
Photo credit: beerlog.ru
Spaten - Oktoberfest
Spaten - Oktoberfest
Style: Märzen / Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.9%
Origin: München, Germany
Spaten's Oktoberfest Beer, created in 1872, is the world's first Oktoberfest beer, brewed for the greatest folk festival in the world. Every year, over and over again, countless Oktoberfest visitors share their enthusiasm about this beer.
Flavor profile: Amber in color, this medium bodied beer has achieved its impeccable taste by balancing the roasted malt flavor with the perfect amount of hops. Having a rich textured palate with an underlying sweetness true to tradition.
HISTORY
The Spaten brewery was founded 1397 and was settled in the Neuhauser Gasse for the first centuries. Today the brewery is located in the Marsstraße and has been managed for over 200 years by the Sedlmayr Family. The logo of the label is a spade with the initials of Gabriel Sedlmayr. Also in the possession of the Sedlmayr family is the Franziskaner brewery. Both of these beers are offered at the Oktoberfest in the Schottenhammel, the Marstall, the Ochsenbraterei and of course the Spaten-Zelt.
More history: Spaten Oktoberfest
Style description: Oktoberfest / Märzen
Link to product website: Spaten
Photo credit: 365beers.wordpress.com
Style: Märzen / Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.9%
Origin: München, Germany
Spaten's Oktoberfest Beer, created in 1872, is the world's first Oktoberfest beer, brewed for the greatest folk festival in the world. Every year, over and over again, countless Oktoberfest visitors share their enthusiasm about this beer.
Flavor profile: Amber in color, this medium bodied beer has achieved its impeccable taste by balancing the roasted malt flavor with the perfect amount of hops. Having a rich textured palate with an underlying sweetness true to tradition.
HISTORY
The Spaten brewery was founded 1397 and was settled in the Neuhauser Gasse for the first centuries. Today the brewery is located in the Marsstraße and has been managed for over 200 years by the Sedlmayr Family. The logo of the label is a spade with the initials of Gabriel Sedlmayr. Also in the possession of the Sedlmayr family is the Franziskaner brewery. Both of these beers are offered at the Oktoberfest in the Schottenhammel, the Marstall, the Ochsenbraterei and of course the Spaten-Zelt.
More history: Spaten Oktoberfest
Style description: Oktoberfest / Märzen
Link to product website: Spaten
Photo credit: 365beers.wordpress.com
Spaten - Premium Lager
Spaten - Premium Lager
Style: Münich Helles Lager
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: München, Germany
With its 600-year tradition, Spaten is one of the oldest existing breweries in Munich. SPATEN has a staunch following among beer lovers throughout southern Bavaria and in many other countries where Munich's beer culture is appreciated, especially France, Italy, and the United States. Their most popular beer is Spaten Münchner Hell (Munich Lager) with 5.2% alcohol content. Fresh and full-bodied, noble in taste, and the colour of old gold, this beer epitomizes the joie de vivre of Munich and its inhabitants. Spaten beer has been brewed in accordance with the German Purity Law since 1516.
Style description: Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Spaten
Photo credit: Beer Awareness
Style: Münich Helles Lager
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: München, Germany
With its 600-year tradition, Spaten is one of the oldest existing breweries in Munich. SPATEN has a staunch following among beer lovers throughout southern Bavaria and in many other countries where Munich's beer culture is appreciated, especially France, Italy, and the United States. Their most popular beer is Spaten Münchner Hell (Munich Lager) with 5.2% alcohol content. Fresh and full-bodied, noble in taste, and the colour of old gold, this beer epitomizes the joie de vivre of Munich and its inhabitants. Spaten beer has been brewed in accordance with the German Purity Law since 1516.
Style description: Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Spaten
Photo credit: Beer Awareness
Kulmbacher - EKU 28
Kulmbacher - EKU 28
Style: Bock
ABV: 11%
Origin: Kulmbach, Germany
In the early 1950’s, the EKU brewery of Kulmbach, Germany set out to make the world's “biggest” beer. Naturally, it would be done according to the Bavarian Purity Law, using nothing but barley malt, yeast, hops, and water. However, beer yeasts are not the hardiest of organisms; too much of the alcohol that they produce will kill them, stopping the fermentation process cold.
But the ingenious EKU brewers had a plan: to take traditional techniques of bock beer brewing to the extreme. Malt concentration was doubled or tripled, (the exact formula still remains secret) giving the yeasts more fuel for conversion to alcohol.
Above all, since stunned yeast can only work very slowly in the presence of high alcohol levels, this beer would have to be given a lot of time. In fact, it had to be fermented in cold storage for an unheard of nine months! After those nine months, EKU 28 was born.
This world-famous beer was made for moments of quiet contemplation or warm conversation amongst friends. EKU 28 is a fabled after-dinner digestif, a splendid winter warmer, or a soothing nightcap in any season.
The four-star World Classic ‘strongest beer in the world’ – tastes great, more filling.
Style description: Bock
Link to product website: Kulmbacher
Style: Bock
ABV: 11%
Origin: Kulmbach, Germany
In the early 1950’s, the EKU brewery of Kulmbach, Germany set out to make the world's “biggest” beer. Naturally, it would be done according to the Bavarian Purity Law, using nothing but barley malt, yeast, hops, and water. However, beer yeasts are not the hardiest of organisms; too much of the alcohol that they produce will kill them, stopping the fermentation process cold.
But the ingenious EKU brewers had a plan: to take traditional techniques of bock beer brewing to the extreme. Malt concentration was doubled or tripled, (the exact formula still remains secret) giving the yeasts more fuel for conversion to alcohol.
Above all, since stunned yeast can only work very slowly in the presence of high alcohol levels, this beer would have to be given a lot of time. In fact, it had to be fermented in cold storage for an unheard of nine months! After those nine months, EKU 28 was born.
This world-famous beer was made for moments of quiet contemplation or warm conversation amongst friends. EKU 28 is a fabled after-dinner digestif, a splendid winter warmer, or a soothing nightcap in any season.
The four-star World Classic ‘strongest beer in the world’ – tastes great, more filling.
Style description: Bock
Link to product website: Kulmbacher
Kulmbacher - Eisbock
Kulmbacher - Eisbock
Style: Eisbock
ABV: 9.2%
Origin: Kulmbach, Germany
The ice bock, also known as "Bavarian", owes its discovery to a coincidence. According to the chronicles of the Kulmbacher brewery, some time around 1900 an apprentice forgot on a cold winter day to carry two barrels of bock beer into the brewery cellar. The barrels stayed outside, were covered by ice and snow and weren't discovered until the following spring. The barrels had burst and the apprentice was reprimanded. But the carelessness was a stroke of luck because under the thick ice coat, a bock beer extract remained, strong tasting and high in alcoholic content.
Even if the dark, tasty speciality is not produced in this spectacular way anymore, the chance that gave birth to this beer became a tradition. Today this beer rarity is brewed in a modern brewing and freezing process, but the incomparable taste is still the same and can always be enjoyed in winter months.
Style description: Eisbock
Link to product website: Kulmbacher
Photo credit: 1yob.tumblr.com
Style: Eisbock
ABV: 9.2%
Origin: Kulmbach, Germany
The ice bock, also known as "Bavarian", owes its discovery to a coincidence. According to the chronicles of the Kulmbacher brewery, some time around 1900 an apprentice forgot on a cold winter day to carry two barrels of bock beer into the brewery cellar. The barrels stayed outside, were covered by ice and snow and weren't discovered until the following spring. The barrels had burst and the apprentice was reprimanded. But the carelessness was a stroke of luck because under the thick ice coat, a bock beer extract remained, strong tasting and high in alcoholic content.
Even if the dark, tasty speciality is not produced in this spectacular way anymore, the chance that gave birth to this beer became a tradition. Today this beer rarity is brewed in a modern brewing and freezing process, but the incomparable taste is still the same and can always be enjoyed in winter months.
Style description: Eisbock
Link to product website: Kulmbacher
Photo credit: 1yob.tumblr.com
Kulmbacher - Edelherb
Kulmbacher - Edelherb
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: Kulmbach, Germany
"Kulmbacher Edelherb is pale and dry. Its special taste is thanks to the soft brewing water from pristine, crystal-clear springs of the Fichtelgebirge, the noblest malting barley from regional farmlands, handpicked hops from the Hallertau, and our legendary brewing skills.
In both 2004 and 2005, Kulmbacher Edelherb was honoured with the German Agricultural Society's highest award, the gold medal for its purity, durability of taste, its fullness and freshness." - Kulmbacher website
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Kulmbacher
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: Kulmbach, Germany
"Kulmbacher Edelherb is pale and dry. Its special taste is thanks to the soft brewing water from pristine, crystal-clear springs of the Fichtelgebirge, the noblest malting barley from regional farmlands, handpicked hops from the Hallertau, and our legendary brewing skills.
In both 2004 and 2005, Kulmbacher Edelherb was honoured with the German Agricultural Society's highest award, the gold medal for its purity, durability of taste, its fullness and freshness." - Kulmbacher website
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Kulmbacher
Krombacher - Dark
Krombacher - Dark
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 4.3%
Origin: Kreuztal-Krombach, Germany
"With the growing interest in dark beers it’s a natural progression within our Krombacher range to introduce an authentic, dark, German beer that is packed full of flavour at a very drinkable 4.3%. The rich, dark, complex, Krombacher Dark has an outstanding depth of flavour using different high roasted malts combined with the famous Felsquellwasser®.
This full bodied beer, of moderate bitterness, lightly hopped and rich in malt for a well-balanced character leads to a full flavoured, intense finish. Expressing this distinctive, high quality premium specialty with rich malty and roasted, warm aromas it is naturally brewed according to the German Purity Law of 1516. Try this delicious original import from Germany, almost impenetrably black with a glimmer of deep, golden brown." - Krombacher website
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Krombacher
Photo credit: fatpig.tistory.com
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 4.3%
Origin: Kreuztal-Krombach, Germany
"With the growing interest in dark beers it’s a natural progression within our Krombacher range to introduce an authentic, dark, German beer that is packed full of flavour at a very drinkable 4.3%. The rich, dark, complex, Krombacher Dark has an outstanding depth of flavour using different high roasted malts combined with the famous Felsquellwasser®.
This full bodied beer, of moderate bitterness, lightly hopped and rich in malt for a well-balanced character leads to a full flavoured, intense finish. Expressing this distinctive, high quality premium specialty with rich malty and roasted, warm aromas it is naturally brewed according to the German Purity Law of 1516. Try this delicious original import from Germany, almost impenetrably black with a glimmer of deep, golden brown." - Krombacher website
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Krombacher
Photo credit: fatpig.tistory.com
Krombacher - Pils
Krombacher - Pils
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Kreuztal-Krombach, Germany
"Situated in beautiful natural surroundings, the pure Felsquellwasser® (mountain spring water) provides the essence of purity that is captured in the unmistakable taste adventure that Krombacher Pils brings us. The taste of our beer is quite decisively characterised by the water it is brewed with.
With Krombacher Pils you enjoy a distinctive, finely bitter taste and a full-flavoured aroma – this is a genuine premium pilsner beer with an alcohol content of 4.8 %. Our modern production processes enhance the traditional recipe whilst complimenting the natural products that have been used for generations to create the unique brew that is Krombacher Pils." - Krombacher website
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Krombacher
Photo credit: dingsbeerblog.com
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Kreuztal-Krombach, Germany
"Situated in beautiful natural surroundings, the pure Felsquellwasser® (mountain spring water) provides the essence of purity that is captured in the unmistakable taste adventure that Krombacher Pils brings us. The taste of our beer is quite decisively characterised by the water it is brewed with.
With Krombacher Pils you enjoy a distinctive, finely bitter taste and a full-flavoured aroma – this is a genuine premium pilsner beer with an alcohol content of 4.8 %. Our modern production processes enhance the traditional recipe whilst complimenting the natural products that have been used for generations to create the unique brew that is Krombacher Pils." - Krombacher website
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Krombacher
Photo credit: dingsbeerblog.com
Einbecker - Mai-Ur-Bock
Einbecker - Mai-Ur-Bock
Style: Mai Bock/Helles Bock
ABV: 6.5%
Origin: Einbeck, Germany
“In spring, the Einbecker brew-masters brew a particular special beer, the Einbecker Mai-Ur-Bock. This pleasantly-bitter refreshment is only available in the spring – as long as supplies last." - Einbecker website
"Tasting Notes: With history dating to 1378, the Einbecker Brauerei is nearly without historical peer among Germany’s breweries. There are three bocks among their offerings (Hell, Mai, and Dunkel), all of which are brewed to an original gravity of 1.065. Brilliant bronzed amber on the pour. The aromatic sweet and toasty nose is freshened by a whiff of grassy noble hops. Medium on the palate with a full range of classically clean, balanced flavor of spicy malt and firm hoppy bitterness. Not only an excellent maibock, but would fit into the autumnal season just as perfectly." - All About Beer Magazine
Style Description: Maibock/Helles Bock
Link to product website: Einbecker
Photo credit: Kevin Stafford
Style: Mai Bock/Helles Bock
ABV: 6.5%
Origin: Einbeck, Germany
“In spring, the Einbecker brew-masters brew a particular special beer, the Einbecker Mai-Ur-Bock. This pleasantly-bitter refreshment is only available in the spring – as long as supplies last." - Einbecker website
"Tasting Notes: With history dating to 1378, the Einbecker Brauerei is nearly without historical peer among Germany’s breweries. There are three bocks among their offerings (Hell, Mai, and Dunkel), all of which are brewed to an original gravity of 1.065. Brilliant bronzed amber on the pour. The aromatic sweet and toasty nose is freshened by a whiff of grassy noble hops. Medium on the palate with a full range of classically clean, balanced flavor of spicy malt and firm hoppy bitterness. Not only an excellent maibock, but would fit into the autumnal season just as perfectly." - All About Beer Magazine
Style Description: Maibock/Helles Bock
Link to product website: Einbecker
Photo credit: Kevin Stafford
Einbecker - Ur-Bock Dunkel
Einbecker - Ur-Bock Dunkel
Style: Bock
ABV: 6.5%
Origin: Einbeck, Germany
"A dark beer with a rich, strong and delicate malt flavor.
At the first sip it is smooth and full-bodied, at the second sip the true rich, strong roasted malt aroma of Einbecker Ur-Bock unfolds. The dark barley-malt brewed refreshment from the Einbecker original recipe." - Einbecker website
Style Description: Bock
Link to product website: Einbecker
Style: Bock
ABV: 6.5%
Origin: Einbeck, Germany
"A dark beer with a rich, strong and delicate malt flavor.
At the first sip it is smooth and full-bodied, at the second sip the true rich, strong roasted malt aroma of Einbecker Ur-Bock unfolds. The dark barley-malt brewed refreshment from the Einbecker original recipe." - Einbecker website
Style Description: Bock
Link to product website: Einbecker
Einbecker - Schwarzbier
Einbecker - Schwarzbier
Style: Schwarzbier (?)
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: Einbeck, Germany
Poured into a 12 oz. Pilsner glass.
Appearance: Dark brown color with a reddish hue; looks like a Dr. Pepper. Absolutly no head at all, even with an aggressive pour.
Smell: Toffee, caramel, dark chocolate and a slight sour note.
Taste: Initially, roasted Munich malts and semi-sweet caramel with a coffee-like bitter flavor mid-way. Aftertaste yields a roasted almond flavor with a mild herbal hop finish.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium body with more carbonation detected than what was visible.
Overall: I'm a little confused because this beer has the qualities of a Munich Dunkel and a Doppelbock, but nothing like other Schwarzbiers-style beers I've had before. So, I stopped trying to analyze what type of beer it was and just enjoyed it. It's one of those beers you can sip slowly and savor, or throw back several in one sitting.
Whatever style it is, it's another awesome brew from Einbecker.
Style description: Schwarzbier
Link to product website: Einbecker
Style: Schwarzbier (?)
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: Einbeck, Germany
Poured into a 12 oz. Pilsner glass.
Appearance: Dark brown color with a reddish hue; looks like a Dr. Pepper. Absolutly no head at all, even with an aggressive pour.
Smell: Toffee, caramel, dark chocolate and a slight sour note.
Taste: Initially, roasted Munich malts and semi-sweet caramel with a coffee-like bitter flavor mid-way. Aftertaste yields a roasted almond flavor with a mild herbal hop finish.
Mouthfeel: Light to medium body with more carbonation detected than what was visible.
Overall: I'm a little confused because this beer has the qualities of a Munich Dunkel and a Doppelbock, but nothing like other Schwarzbiers-style beers I've had before. So, I stopped trying to analyze what type of beer it was and just enjoyed it. It's one of those beers you can sip slowly and savor, or throw back several in one sitting.
Whatever style it is, it's another awesome brew from Einbecker.
Style description: Schwarzbier
Link to product website: Einbecker
Aecht Schlenkerla - Eiche
Aecht Schlenkerla - Eiche
Style: Rauchbier/Doppelbock
ABV: 8%
Origin: Bamberg, Germany
My Experience:
Appearance: Pours a gorgeous, clear, dark amber/copper color with a two-finger off-white head that doesn't hang around too long. Some lacing left on the glass.
Smell: The aroma of smoked ham, toasted bread and baked apples with a grassy earthiness to it.
Taste: Smoky flavor up front, then the sweet caramel malts come forward. There is a nice earthy hop flavor and some dark fruity flavors that linger. A hint of alcohol in the finish. Definitely a dopplebock and the smoke flavor doesn't cover it up. Nice balance.
Mouthfeel: Medium body and a nice low level of carbonation, smooth and silky.
Overall a very drinkable beer at 8% ABV. A very good and unique version of the style. The oak-smoked malt is more subtle than their usual beech-smoked malt. This is my favorite from Aecht Schlenkerla; I highly recommend this beer.
The Aecht Schlenkerla website doesn't have a lot to say about this particular offering, other than it is a Christmas seasonal brew. However, it is an interesting website that covers the brewing process and the history of the brewery and tavern dating back to the 15th century.
Price I paid: $5.49 for a 500ml (16.9 oz) bottle.
Suggested Serving Temperature: 44-46°F (7-8°C)
Style description: Rauchbier
Link to product website: Aecht Schlenkerla
Photo credit: pivnirecenze.cz
Style: Rauchbier/Doppelbock
ABV: 8%
Origin: Bamberg, Germany
My Experience:
Appearance: Pours a gorgeous, clear, dark amber/copper color with a two-finger off-white head that doesn't hang around too long. Some lacing left on the glass.
Smell: The aroma of smoked ham, toasted bread and baked apples with a grassy earthiness to it.
Taste: Smoky flavor up front, then the sweet caramel malts come forward. There is a nice earthy hop flavor and some dark fruity flavors that linger. A hint of alcohol in the finish. Definitely a dopplebock and the smoke flavor doesn't cover it up. Nice balance.
Mouthfeel: Medium body and a nice low level of carbonation, smooth and silky.
Overall a very drinkable beer at 8% ABV. A very good and unique version of the style. The oak-smoked malt is more subtle than their usual beech-smoked malt. This is my favorite from Aecht Schlenkerla; I highly recommend this beer.
The Aecht Schlenkerla website doesn't have a lot to say about this particular offering, other than it is a Christmas seasonal brew. However, it is an interesting website that covers the brewing process and the history of the brewery and tavern dating back to the 15th century.
Price I paid: $5.49 for a 500ml (16.9 oz) bottle.
Suggested Serving Temperature: 44-46°F (7-8°C)
Style description: Rauchbier
Link to product website: Aecht Schlenkerla
Photo credit: pivnirecenze.cz
Aecht Schlenkerla - Rauchbier /Märzen
Aecht Schlenkerla - Rauchbier /Märzen
Style: Rauchbier
ABV: 5.4%
Origin: Bamberg, Germany
Appearance: Deep brown with ruby highlights. Large light tan head with good retention and some nice lacing.
Aroma: Firewood/smoke aromas with some toasted, bready malts.
Flavor: Somewhat sweet toasted, bready malt flavors are overtaken by a smooth, complex smoke flavor which is pleasant and not overwhelming. Smoky, charred wood and charcoal flavors carry long into the aftertaste.
Mouthfeel: Medium body, moderate, light carbonation, smooth.
This is a fantastically crafted smoked beer. Pretty tasty on its own, but it pairs phenomenally with so many foods.
Style description: Rauchbier
Link to product website: Schlenkerla
Style: Rauchbier
ABV: 5.4%
Origin: Bamberg, Germany
Appearance: Deep brown with ruby highlights. Large light tan head with good retention and some nice lacing.
Aroma: Firewood/smoke aromas with some toasted, bready malts.
Flavor: Somewhat sweet toasted, bready malt flavors are overtaken by a smooth, complex smoke flavor which is pleasant and not overwhelming. Smoky, charred wood and charcoal flavors carry long into the aftertaste.
Mouthfeel: Medium body, moderate, light carbonation, smooth.
This is a fantastically crafted smoked beer. Pretty tasty on its own, but it pairs phenomenally with so many foods.
Style description: Rauchbier
Link to product website: Schlenkerla
Helles Schlenkerla Lagerbier
Helles Schlenkerla Lagerbier
Style: Munich Helles Lager
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Bamberg, Germany
Schlenkerla Helles is brewed with fine Bavarian aroma hops from the area around the city of Nürnberg. It's lagered in century old caves underneath the historic Schlenkerla brewery and maltings. Schlenkerla Helles is boiled in the same copper kettles and bottom fermented by the same yeast as the historic Schlenkerla Smokebeer. Its subtle smokiness without using smoke malt makes “Helles Schlenkerla Lager” a unique representative of the classic lager beer style “Bavarian Helles”.
Style description: Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Aecht Schlenkerla
Photo credit: beerdrinkerwithtriathlonproblem.blogspot.com
Style: Munich Helles Lager
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Bamberg, Germany
Schlenkerla Helles is brewed with fine Bavarian aroma hops from the area around the city of Nürnberg. It's lagered in century old caves underneath the historic Schlenkerla brewery and maltings. Schlenkerla Helles is boiled in the same copper kettles and bottom fermented by the same yeast as the historic Schlenkerla Smokebeer. Its subtle smokiness without using smoke malt makes “Helles Schlenkerla Lager” a unique representative of the classic lager beer style “Bavarian Helles”.
Style description: Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Aecht Schlenkerla
Photo credit: beerdrinkerwithtriathlonproblem.blogspot.com
Weihenstephaner - Korbinian
Weihenstephaner - Korbinian
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.4%
Origin: Freising, Germany.
Our Korbinian, the full-bodied, dark Doppelbock with light brown foam, wins beer-lovers over with a balance of fruity hints of plums and figs, a dark malt aroma - reminiscent of toffee, nuts and chocolate. Its roasted flavour goes well with smoked meat and fish as well as venison and poultry. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill. - Weihenstephaner website
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Weihenstephaner
Photo credit: musingsonbeer.com
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.4%
Origin: Freising, Germany.
Our Korbinian, the full-bodied, dark Doppelbock with light brown foam, wins beer-lovers over with a balance of fruity hints of plums and figs, a dark malt aroma - reminiscent of toffee, nuts and chocolate. Its roasted flavour goes well with smoked meat and fish as well as venison and poultry. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill. - Weihenstephaner website
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Weihenstephaner
Photo credit: musingsonbeer.com
Weihenstephaner - Tradition
Weihenstephaner - Tradition
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: Freising, Germany
From the website:
Our reddish brown dark lager “Tradition” with its mild aroma of hops smells like roasted malt and impresses with its sweet caramel flavor which is followed by a slight bitterness. Goes well with hearty dishes, such as roasts, poultry and game. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Weihenstephan
Photo credit: heresbeersforthatthought.blogspot.com
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: Freising, Germany
From the website:
Our reddish brown dark lager “Tradition” with its mild aroma of hops smells like roasted malt and impresses with its sweet caramel flavor which is followed by a slight bitterness. Goes well with hearty dishes, such as roasts, poultry and game. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Weihenstephan
Photo credit: heresbeersforthatthought.blogspot.com
Weihenstephaner - Festbier
Weihenstephaner - Festbier
Style: Märzen/Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.6%
Origin: Freising, Germany
Bavarians have been celebrating the harvest with beer festivals since before the 1400s. Märzen is brewed in March to be ready for the September and October beer festivals.
Taste:
Deep, golden color. Slightly sweet, malty nose. Medium to full body with a soft dryness from long maturation.
Serving Suggestions:
Tellerfleisch (boiled beef), pretzels and radishes, goulash with dumplings, clam chowder, bock-wurst, weiner schnitzel, roasted chicken, pork, and sauerkraut. Traditionally served in tall earthenware or glass mugs.
Accolades:
• Five out of Five Mugs - "Best of the fests." Modern Brewery Age, Oct. '11
• Best International Lager - Calgary Beerfest 2009.
• Gold Medal and Top-Rated Vienna/Märzen -World Beer Championships 2006.
• Gold Medal - World Beer Championships 2005.
• Gold Medal and "Best of 2003" - World Beer Championships 2003.
• Gold Medal Vienna/Märzen - World Beer Championships 2001, 2002.
• Platinum Medal & World Champion Vienna Märzen -World Beer Championships 1997.
Style description: Märzen / Oktoberfest
Link to product website: Weihenstephan
Photo credit: yearinbeer.tumblr.com
Style: Märzen/Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.6%
Origin: Freising, Germany
Bavarians have been celebrating the harvest with beer festivals since before the 1400s. Märzen is brewed in March to be ready for the September and October beer festivals.
Taste:
Deep, golden color. Slightly sweet, malty nose. Medium to full body with a soft dryness from long maturation.
Serving Suggestions:
Tellerfleisch (boiled beef), pretzels and radishes, goulash with dumplings, clam chowder, bock-wurst, weiner schnitzel, roasted chicken, pork, and sauerkraut. Traditionally served in tall earthenware or glass mugs.
Accolades:
• Five out of Five Mugs - "Best of the fests." Modern Brewery Age, Oct. '11
• Best International Lager - Calgary Beerfest 2009.
• Gold Medal and Top-Rated Vienna/Märzen -World Beer Championships 2006.
• Gold Medal - World Beer Championships 2005.
• Gold Medal and "Best of 2003" - World Beer Championships 2003.
• Gold Medal Vienna/Märzen - World Beer Championships 2001, 2002.
• Platinum Medal & World Champion Vienna Märzen -World Beer Championships 1997.
Style description: Märzen / Oktoberfest
Link to product website: Weihenstephan
Photo credit: yearinbeer.tumblr.com
Weihenstephaner - Original Premium
Weihenstephaner - Original Premium
Style: Munich Helles Lager
ABV: 5.1%
Origin: Freising, Germany
From the website:
A good beer takes its time. The long storage makes our yellow bright lager, “Original”, a flavourful beer enjoyed with fine poured, white foam. With a mild hoppy note and its pleasant fresh spicy taste, it goes very well with salads, poultry, stews or with a hearty snack. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill.
Style Description: Style description: Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Weihenstephan
Style: Munich Helles Lager
ABV: 5.1%
Origin: Freising, Germany
From the website:
A good beer takes its time. The long storage makes our yellow bright lager, “Original”, a flavourful beer enjoyed with fine poured, white foam. With a mild hoppy note and its pleasant fresh spicy taste, it goes very well with salads, poultry, stews or with a hearty snack. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill.
Style Description: Style description: Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Weihenstephan
Weihenstephaner - Hefeweissbier Dunkel
Weihenstephaner - Hefeweissbier Dunkel
Style: Dunkelweizen
ABV: 5.3%
Origin: Freising, Germany
"Our dark wheat beer is impressive with its creamy white foam. A fruity-fresh sweetness and hints of mature bananas harmonise with delicious flavours of roasted malt, sparkling and full-bodied with a light caramel taste on the first sip. An excellent accompaniment from hearty meals and game to chocolate and nut desserts. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill." - Weihenstephan website
Style description: Dunkelweizen
Link to product website: Weihenstephaner
Style: Dunkelweizen
ABV: 5.3%
Origin: Freising, Germany
"Our dark wheat beer is impressive with its creamy white foam. A fruity-fresh sweetness and hints of mature bananas harmonise with delicious flavours of roasted malt, sparkling and full-bodied with a light caramel taste on the first sip. An excellent accompaniment from hearty meals and game to chocolate and nut desserts. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill." - Weihenstephan website
Style description: Dunkelweizen
Link to product website: Weihenstephaner
Weihenstephaner - Hefe Weissbier
Weihenstephaner - Hefe Weissbier
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.4%
Origin: Freising, Germany
"Our golden-yellow wheat beer, with its fine-poured white foam, smells of cloves and impresses consumers with its refreshing banana flavour. It is full bodied and with a smooth yeast taste. To be enjoyed at any time (always a pleasure / enjoyment), goes excellently with fish and seafood, with spicy cheese and especially with the traditional Bavarian veal sausage. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill." - Weihenstephan website
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Weihenstephaner
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.4%
Origin: Freising, Germany
"Our golden-yellow wheat beer, with its fine-poured white foam, smells of cloves and impresses consumers with its refreshing banana flavour. It is full bodied and with a smooth yeast taste. To be enjoyed at any time (always a pleasure / enjoyment), goes excellently with fish and seafood, with spicy cheese and especially with the traditional Bavarian veal sausage. Brewed according to our centuries-old brewing tradition on the Weihenstephan hill." - Weihenstephan website
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Weihenstephaner
Paulaner - Salvator
Paulaner - Salvator
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.9%
Origin: München, Germany
Paulaner Salvator is the founding father of all Bavarian doppelbocks, and the originator of all "-ator" beers. With an alcohol content of 7.9%, it is not only the strongest beer brewed by the Paulaner brewery, but also has the most tradition: Paulaner Salvator has been brewed from 100% Munich malt to a handed-down recipe for 375 years. Today it is the best selling "double-bock" beer in Germany.
Paulaner Salvator is freshly brewed every year for the stout season, and is only available between December and April, as a general rule. Based on the principle of, "liquids don't break a fast", this tasty doppelbock beer remains the traditional drink for Lent to this day.
The Paulaner Salvator label demonstrates its "credences": master brewer, Brother Barnabus serving Prince-Elector Karl Theodor freshly brewed Salvator with the words "Salve, pater patriae! Bibas princes optime!" ("Greetings, father of the fatherland! Drink, most worthy Prince-Elector!") Convinced of the quality of this delicious stout beer, the Prince-Elector immediately bestowed upon the Paulaner monks the unrestricted right to sell alcoholic beverages. Paulaner Salvator is dark, full-bodied and strong, and wonderfully malty in flavor and aroma. A perfectly balanced, quaffable stout specialty.
Pairings:
Paulaner Salvator is a malty and stout doppelbock, so it goes best with hearty dishes such as roast duck or pork. Thanks to its malty sweetness, it also harmonizes well with cheese specialties or even desserts.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Paulaner
Paulaner - Original Münchner Dunkel
Paulaner - Original Münchner Dunkel
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.0%
Origin: München, Germany
Original Münchner Dunkel is actually the "original" Munich beer. Although light beer overtook dark in the popularity stakes at the end of th 19th century, the traditional strong flavor of Original Münchner Dunkel is once again enjoying an upward trend. Its dark golden color and wonderfully full flavor are the results of the traditional bottom-fermented brewing process using dark quality barley malt.
Original Münchner Dunkel is the perfect accopaniment venison, duck and cabbage-based dishes.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Paulaner
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.0%
Origin: München, Germany
Original Münchner Dunkel is actually the "original" Munich beer. Although light beer overtook dark in the popularity stakes at the end of th 19th century, the traditional strong flavor of Original Münchner Dunkel is once again enjoying an upward trend. Its dark golden color and wonderfully full flavor are the results of the traditional bottom-fermented brewing process using dark quality barley malt.
Original Münchner Dunkel is the perfect accopaniment venison, duck and cabbage-based dishes.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Paulaner
Paulaner - Oktoberfest Bier
Paulaner - Oktoberfest Bier
Style: Oktoberfest/Märzen
ABV: 6.1%
Origin: München, Germany
"Light-medium yellow-gold with a dense, creamy white head. Intense, sweet citrus nose, with notes of tangerine orange and orange peel, a yeasty creaminess and a slight wheatbear character. Like the Lowenbrau, this Oktoberfest lager has plenty of body and texture, with a slightly more rounded, smooth and harmonious palate of earthy and fruity flavours and a nice bitter tang into the finish. Perhaps less complex than the Lowenbrau, but a more substantial beer too." - Tom Cannavan
Style description: Oktoberfest/Märzen
Link to product website: Paulaner
Style: Oktoberfest/Märzen
ABV: 6.1%
Origin: München, Germany
"Light-medium yellow-gold with a dense, creamy white head. Intense, sweet citrus nose, with notes of tangerine orange and orange peel, a yeasty creaminess and a slight wheatbear character. Like the Lowenbrau, this Oktoberfest lager has plenty of body and texture, with a slightly more rounded, smooth and harmonious palate of earthy and fruity flavours and a nice bitter tang into the finish. Perhaps less complex than the Lowenbrau, but a more substantial beer too." - Tom Cannavan
Style description: Oktoberfest/Märzen
Link to product website: Paulaner
Paulaner - Original Munich
Paulaner - Original Munich
Style: Munich Helles Lager
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: München, Germany
"This beer has a very pale, pure gold colour and a medium-density white head. The nose is terrifically grassy, with notes of nettles and and just a little high note of wheat-beery bite (though in fact this is 100% barley). On the palate it is beautifully refreshing, with a dazzling palate of citrus and hop flavours that are clean and crisp and a big streak of lemony acidity into a hoppy finish. Really nice beer in a summery, bright style." - Tom Cannavan
Style description: Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Paulaner
Style: Munich Helles Lager
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: München, Germany
"This beer has a very pale, pure gold colour and a medium-density white head. The nose is terrifically grassy, with notes of nettles and and just a little high note of wheat-beery bite (though in fact this is 100% barley). On the palate it is beautifully refreshing, with a dazzling palate of citrus and hop flavours that are clean and crisp and a big streak of lemony acidity into a hoppy finish. Really nice beer in a summery, bright style." - Tom Cannavan
Style description: Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Paulaner
Paulaner - Premium Pils
Paulaner - Premium Pils
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: München, Germany
From the Paulaner website:
Paulaner Premium Pils is brewed in strict accordance with the traditional Pilsen brewing method using hops from Hallertau. Its light colour and stiff foam distinguish it from other beers. Although Pils originally comes from Bohemia, it was first produced by a Bavarian brewer. Although Pils has always been a firm favourite in Bavaria, the rest of Germany is today no less appreciative of its fine, dry flavour.
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Paulaner
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: München, Germany
From the Paulaner website:
Paulaner Premium Pils is brewed in strict accordance with the traditional Pilsen brewing method using hops from Hallertau. Its light colour and stiff foam distinguish it from other beers. Although Pils originally comes from Bohemia, it was first produced by a Bavarian brewer. Although Pils has always been a firm favourite in Bavaria, the rest of Germany is today no less appreciative of its fine, dry flavour.
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Paulaner
Paulaner - Hefe-Weissbier
Paulaner - Hefe-Weissbier
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.0%
Origin: Münich, Germany
"The Paulaner Hefe-Weissbier natural wheat beer is our brewery’s best-selling product. Specifically cultivated, top-fermented yeast give it its unmistakable character: sparklingly mild and fruity with a delicate yeast flavour. The eye is immediately drawn to its gleaming orange colour, its uniform cloudiness and the large head. The unfiltered brewing method allows it to retain its natural authenticity along with the many vitamins, minerals and trace elements." - Paulaner website
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Paulaner
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.0%
Origin: Münich, Germany
"The Paulaner Hefe-Weissbier natural wheat beer is our brewery’s best-selling product. Specifically cultivated, top-fermented yeast give it its unmistakable character: sparklingly mild and fruity with a delicate yeast flavour. The eye is immediately drawn to its gleaming orange colour, its uniform cloudiness and the large head. The unfiltered brewing method allows it to retain its natural authenticity along with the many vitamins, minerals and trace elements." - Paulaner website
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Paulaner
Ayinger - Celebrator
Ayinger - Celebrator
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 6.7%
Origin: Aying, Germany
Brauerei Aying has a long-standing reputation for excellence in beer and hospitality. Although Ayinger Brewery was founded in a picturesque village 25 kilometers from Munich in 1878, the site of the Ayinger Gasthaus Brewery Hotel has been one of Bavaria’s most famous restaurants for more than 500 years.
Ayinger beers are characterized by their delicious balanced maltiness (not found in beers of the major Munich breweries). Unlike the mass-market brewers, Ayinger uses a significant portion of locally-grown barley and wheat to produce their beers. In a land of wonderful breweries, Ayinger is considered a benchmark of excellence. In recent years, Ayinger usually places first in every category entered in the World Beer Championships.
Celebrator:
This beer originates in a monk’s recipe and reflects it in its heartiness and dominant malty taste. The Pope of Beers, Conrad Seidl, describes it as: “Almost black with a very slight red tone, a sensational, festive foam and truly extraordinary fragrance that at first summons up visions of greaves lard. The first taste is of mild fullness with an accompanying coffee tone, which becomes more dominant with the aftertaste. There is very little of the sweetness that is frequently to be tasted with beer.” The Ayinger Celebrator has been ranked among the best beers of the world by the Beverage Testing Institute several times and has won numerous platinum medallions.
• Platinum Medal & Top-Rated Doppelbock – 1995, 96, 97, 2001, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, World Beer Championships
• Best International Lager, Calgary Beerfest 2008
• Five Stars (“Supreme”), Beverage Experts, Jan. 2007
• Gold Medal and “Top Strong Lager,” Helsinki Beer Fest 2004
• Best of Show – California Beer Festival
• “World classic.” – Michael Jackson
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Ayinger
Photo credit: beerlog.ru
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 6.7%
Origin: Aying, Germany
Brauerei Aying has a long-standing reputation for excellence in beer and hospitality. Although Ayinger Brewery was founded in a picturesque village 25 kilometers from Munich in 1878, the site of the Ayinger Gasthaus Brewery Hotel has been one of Bavaria’s most famous restaurants for more than 500 years.
Ayinger beers are characterized by their delicious balanced maltiness (not found in beers of the major Munich breweries). Unlike the mass-market brewers, Ayinger uses a significant portion of locally-grown barley and wheat to produce their beers. In a land of wonderful breweries, Ayinger is considered a benchmark of excellence. In recent years, Ayinger usually places first in every category entered in the World Beer Championships.
Celebrator:
This beer originates in a monk’s recipe and reflects it in its heartiness and dominant malty taste. The Pope of Beers, Conrad Seidl, describes it as: “Almost black with a very slight red tone, a sensational, festive foam and truly extraordinary fragrance that at first summons up visions of greaves lard. The first taste is of mild fullness with an accompanying coffee tone, which becomes more dominant with the aftertaste. There is very little of the sweetness that is frequently to be tasted with beer.” The Ayinger Celebrator has been ranked among the best beers of the world by the Beverage Testing Institute several times and has won numerous platinum medallions.
• Platinum Medal & Top-Rated Doppelbock – 1995, 96, 97, 2001, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, World Beer Championships
• Best International Lager, Calgary Beerfest 2008
• Five Stars (“Supreme”), Beverage Experts, Jan. 2007
• Gold Medal and “Top Strong Lager,” Helsinki Beer Fest 2004
• Best of Show – California Beer Festival
• “World classic.” – Michael Jackson
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Ayinger
Photo credit: beerlog.ru
Ayinger - Altbairisch Dunkel
Ayinger - Altbairisch Dunkel
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.0%
Origin: Aying, Germany.
Translated to English, the name literally means "Old Bavarian Dark Beer." This is the most traditional style of beer in Bavaria. Before light beers were introduced from the big cities, most village beer (like most village bread) was dark, toasty and flavorful.
Taste:
Dark brown with a warm sweet aroma. A satisfying malty taste with coffee-ish tones and a hint of fruitiness.
Serving Suggestions:
Pasta with meat sauce, potato dumplings, choucroute Aying, freshly baked bread, egg rolls, spring rolls, salmon sausage. Serve in tumbler or stoneware mug at 45 °F.
Accolades:
• Gold Medal & World Champion - World Beer Championships 1994, '95, '96, '97, '98, '99, 2001, '02, '03, '07, '11
• Gold Medal - Deutsche Landwirtschaftsgesellschaft.
From the Ayinger website -
A deep mahogany color with a golden-brown glow that comes exclusively from the malt, is characteristic of this dark export beer. Made in the traditional two-mash method, it is brewed from five kinds of malts. Two of them are dark specialty malts that are kiln-dried after old Bavarian tradition. This Ayinger beer specialty with its warm, nutty flavor is full-bodied and smooth. The long finish provides light notes of cocoa bean and coffee. A beer of wonderful balance in taste.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Ayinger
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.0%
Origin: Aying, Germany.
Translated to English, the name literally means "Old Bavarian Dark Beer." This is the most traditional style of beer in Bavaria. Before light beers were introduced from the big cities, most village beer (like most village bread) was dark, toasty and flavorful.
Taste:
Dark brown with a warm sweet aroma. A satisfying malty taste with coffee-ish tones and a hint of fruitiness.
Serving Suggestions:
Pasta with meat sauce, potato dumplings, choucroute Aying, freshly baked bread, egg rolls, spring rolls, salmon sausage. Serve in tumbler or stoneware mug at 45 °F.
Accolades:
• Gold Medal & World Champion - World Beer Championships 1994, '95, '96, '97, '98, '99, 2001, '02, '03, '07, '11
• Gold Medal - Deutsche Landwirtschaftsgesellschaft.
From the Ayinger website -
A deep mahogany color with a golden-brown glow that comes exclusively from the malt, is characteristic of this dark export beer. Made in the traditional two-mash method, it is brewed from five kinds of malts. Two of them are dark specialty malts that are kiln-dried after old Bavarian tradition. This Ayinger beer specialty with its warm, nutty flavor is full-bodied and smooth. The long finish provides light notes of cocoa bean and coffee. A beer of wonderful balance in taste.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Ayinger
Ayinger - Oktober Fest-Märzen
Ayinger - Oktober Fest-Märzen
Style: Oktoberfest/Märzen
ABV: 5.8%
Origin: Aying, Germany
Brauerei Aying has a long-standing reputation for excellence in beer and hospitality. Ayinger Brewery was founded in a picturesque village 25 kilometers from Munich in 1878. The site of the Ayinger Gasthaus Brewery Hotel has been one of Bavaria’s most famous restaurants for more than 500 years.
Ayinger beers are characterized by their delicious balanced maltiness. Unlike the mass-market brewers, Ayinger uses a significant portion of locally-grown barley and wheat to produce their beers. In a land of wonderful breweries, Ayinger is considered a benchmark of excellence. In recent years, Ayinger has place first in most categories entered in the World Beer Championships.
The Beer:
Bavarians have been celebrating the harvest with beer festivals since before the 1400s. Märzen is brewed in March to be ready for the September and October beer festivals.
Taste:
Rich, golden color. Slightly sweet, malty nose. Medium to big body and alcohol. Soft dryness from long maturation.
Serving Suggestions:
Tellerfleisch (boiled beef), pretzels and radishes, goulash with dumplings, clam chowder, bock-wurst, weiner schnitzel. Traditionally served in tall earthenware or glass mugs.
• Gold Medal and Top-Rated Vienna/Märzen, 2006 World Beer Championships.
• Gold Medal 2005 World Beer Championships.
• Gold Medal and “Best of 2003” World Beer Championships.
• Gold Medal Vienna/Märzen 2001, 2002 World Beer Championships.
• Platinum Medal & World Champion Vienna Märzen 1997 World Beer Championships.
Style description: Märzen/Oktoberfest
Link to product website: Ayinger
Photo credit: beermestrengthlord.wordpress.com
Style: Oktoberfest/Märzen
ABV: 5.8%
Origin: Aying, Germany
Brauerei Aying has a long-standing reputation for excellence in beer and hospitality. Ayinger Brewery was founded in a picturesque village 25 kilometers from Munich in 1878. The site of the Ayinger Gasthaus Brewery Hotel has been one of Bavaria’s most famous restaurants for more than 500 years.
Ayinger beers are characterized by their delicious balanced maltiness. Unlike the mass-market brewers, Ayinger uses a significant portion of locally-grown barley and wheat to produce their beers. In a land of wonderful breweries, Ayinger is considered a benchmark of excellence. In recent years, Ayinger has place first in most categories entered in the World Beer Championships.
The Beer:
Bavarians have been celebrating the harvest with beer festivals since before the 1400s. Märzen is brewed in March to be ready for the September and October beer festivals.
Taste:
Rich, golden color. Slightly sweet, malty nose. Medium to big body and alcohol. Soft dryness from long maturation.
Serving Suggestions:
Tellerfleisch (boiled beef), pretzels and radishes, goulash with dumplings, clam chowder, bock-wurst, weiner schnitzel. Traditionally served in tall earthenware or glass mugs.
• Gold Medal and Top-Rated Vienna/Märzen, 2006 World Beer Championships.
• Gold Medal 2005 World Beer Championships.
• Gold Medal and “Best of 2003” World Beer Championships.
• Gold Medal Vienna/Märzen 2001, 2002 World Beer Championships.
• Platinum Medal & World Champion Vienna Märzen 1997 World Beer Championships.
Style description: Märzen/Oktoberfest
Link to product website: Ayinger
Photo credit: beermestrengthlord.wordpress.com
Warsteiner - Premium Dunkel
Warsteiner - Premium Dunkel
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: Warstein, Germany
Thanks to only the best ingredients, this dark beer refreshes like a true lager beer. It has a rich smooth taste with a lingering, slightly sweet aftertaste. The delicate aroma and extraordinary coloration resulting from a careful barley malt roasting process.
Our company only purchases and processes quality hops that meet our strict quality requirements. The special combination of bitter and aroma hops is unique and is a key component of the well balanced, mildly hoppy Warsteiner Premium Dunkel.
The malt for our beer is manufactured from top-quality brewing barley cultivated from well-known German producing regions and from Champagne, which enjoy optimal climatic a soil conditions.
Another top-quality attribute is the original and especially soft brewing water. This is obtained from the Kaiserquelle, among other sources.
Albert Cramer Senior discovered the Kaiserquelle (Kaiser's Spring) at the edge of the Arnsberg Forest, close to the Waldpark brewery of today. With a water hardness of only one or two degrees, the water is especially suitable for brewing beer and contributes to the beer's wholesomeness. The Kaiserquelle's soft water, which still to this day feeds the Warsteiner Brewery's water tanks, was crucial for the huge success of Warsteiner's Pilsner, which was brewed from 1927, following the registration of water rights.
The exceptional high quality of our raw materials of barley, hops and brewing water, guaranteed by continuous checks and optimazation, makes a decisive contribution to our constant efforts to brew a top-notch, superior, premium-class beer.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Warsteiner
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: Warstein, Germany
Thanks to only the best ingredients, this dark beer refreshes like a true lager beer. It has a rich smooth taste with a lingering, slightly sweet aftertaste. The delicate aroma and extraordinary coloration resulting from a careful barley malt roasting process.
Our company only purchases and processes quality hops that meet our strict quality requirements. The special combination of bitter and aroma hops is unique and is a key component of the well balanced, mildly hoppy Warsteiner Premium Dunkel.
The malt for our beer is manufactured from top-quality brewing barley cultivated from well-known German producing regions and from Champagne, which enjoy optimal climatic a soil conditions.
Another top-quality attribute is the original and especially soft brewing water. This is obtained from the Kaiserquelle, among other sources.
Albert Cramer Senior discovered the Kaiserquelle (Kaiser's Spring) at the edge of the Arnsberg Forest, close to the Waldpark brewery of today. With a water hardness of only one or two degrees, the water is especially suitable for brewing beer and contributes to the beer's wholesomeness. The Kaiserquelle's soft water, which still to this day feeds the Warsteiner Brewery's water tanks, was crucial for the huge success of Warsteiner's Pilsner, which was brewed from 1927, following the registration of water rights.
The exceptional high quality of our raw materials of barley, hops and brewing water, guaranteed by continuous checks and optimazation, makes a decisive contribution to our constant efforts to brew a top-notch, superior, premium-class beer.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Warsteiner
Warsteiner - Oktoberfest
Warsteiner - Oktoberfest
Style: Märzen/Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.9%
Origin: Warstein, Germany
Amber in color and provides a full-bodied flavor that combines a nice balance of hops and rich maltiness with a nice length and appeal. Featuring forest spring water, two-row malted spring barley and all German hops. The result is a smooth and festive taste experience. Brewed according to German Purity Law of 1516 with no adjuncts, chemicals, additives or preservatives.
Availability of Warsteiner Premium Oktoberfest is limited to the Oktoberfest season. - gotbeer.com
Style description: Oktoberfest / Märzen
Link to product website: Warsteiner
Style: Märzen/Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.9%
Origin: Warstein, Germany
Amber in color and provides a full-bodied flavor that combines a nice balance of hops and rich maltiness with a nice length and appeal. Featuring forest spring water, two-row malted spring barley and all German hops. The result is a smooth and festive taste experience. Brewed according to German Purity Law of 1516 with no adjuncts, chemicals, additives or preservatives.
Availability of Warsteiner Premium Oktoberfest is limited to the Oktoberfest season. - gotbeer.com
Style description: Oktoberfest / Märzen
Link to product website: Warsteiner
Warsteiner - Premium Verum
Warsteiner - Premium Verum
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Warstein, Germany
Our company only purchases and processes quality hops that meet our strict quality requirements. The special combination of bitter and aroma hops is unique and is a key component of the well balanced, mild-hoppy WARSTEINER Premium German Pilsener.
The malt for our beer is manufactured from top-quality brewing barley cultivated from well-known German producing regions and from Champagne, which enjoy optimal climatic and soil conditions.
The light golden yellow color of WARSTEINER Premium German Pilsener beer is obtained thanks to none other than the finest ingredients and an especially gentle, careful brewing process.
Another top-quality attribute is the original and especially soft brewing water. This is obtained from the Kaiserquelle, among other sources.
Albert Cramer Senior discovered the Kaiserquelle (‘Kaiser’s Spring’) at the edge of the Arnsberg Forest, close to the Waldpark brewery of today. With a water hardness of only one to two degrees, the water is especially suitable for brewing beer and contributes to the beer’s wholesomeness. The Kaiserquelle’s soft water, which still to this day feeds the Warsteiner Brewery’s water tanks, was crucial for the huge success of Warsteiner Pilsner, which was brewed from 1927 following the registration of water rights.
The “Öko Test” magazine compared 46 beers including known brands distributed throughout Germany and regional brands. The Warsteiner Brewery’s Premium-Pils was rated “First Class” by the Öko-Test jurors as the best beer distributed throughout Germany from a family-run brewery (August 2009).
This outstanding result impressively underscores Warsteiner’s traditional quality attributes.
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Warsteiner
Photo credit: beerlog.ru
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Warstein, Germany
Our company only purchases and processes quality hops that meet our strict quality requirements. The special combination of bitter and aroma hops is unique and is a key component of the well balanced, mild-hoppy WARSTEINER Premium German Pilsener.
The malt for our beer is manufactured from top-quality brewing barley cultivated from well-known German producing regions and from Champagne, which enjoy optimal climatic and soil conditions.
The light golden yellow color of WARSTEINER Premium German Pilsener beer is obtained thanks to none other than the finest ingredients and an especially gentle, careful brewing process.
Another top-quality attribute is the original and especially soft brewing water. This is obtained from the Kaiserquelle, among other sources.
Albert Cramer Senior discovered the Kaiserquelle (‘Kaiser’s Spring’) at the edge of the Arnsberg Forest, close to the Waldpark brewery of today. With a water hardness of only one to two degrees, the water is especially suitable for brewing beer and contributes to the beer’s wholesomeness. The Kaiserquelle’s soft water, which still to this day feeds the Warsteiner Brewery’s water tanks, was crucial for the huge success of Warsteiner Pilsner, which was brewed from 1927 following the registration of water rights.
The “Öko Test” magazine compared 46 beers including known brands distributed throughout Germany and regional brands. The Warsteiner Brewery’s Premium-Pils was rated “First Class” by the Öko-Test jurors as the best beer distributed throughout Germany from a family-run brewery (August 2009).
This outstanding result impressively underscores Warsteiner’s traditional quality attributes.
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Warsteiner
Photo credit: beerlog.ru
Löwenbräu - Triumphator
Löwenbräu - Triumphator
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.6%
Origin: München, Germany
Translated from the website:
Of the stories about the once "strongest man of Bavaria" today the stone of the Steyrer-Hans weighs 259 kilograms, which he allegedly licks with one finger, as well as an annual comparison of forces in the Löwenbräukeller. When power is needed, triumphator is drunk. The spicy, dark strong beer is aromatic and powerful in taste.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Löwenbräu
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.6%
Origin: München, Germany
Translated from the website:
Of the stories about the once "strongest man of Bavaria" today the stone of the Steyrer-Hans weighs 259 kilograms, which he allegedly licks with one finger, as well as an annual comparison of forces in the Löwenbräukeller. When power is needed, triumphator is drunk. The spicy, dark strong beer is aromatic and powerful in taste.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Löwenbräu
Löwenbräu - Dunkel
Löwenbräu - Dunkel
Style: Münich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
From the Löwenbräu website:
A traditional Bavarian specialty beer from Münich. Dark, full-bodied and delicately aromatic malt flavor. A result of balanced ingredients and highest brewing expertise. Special, dark roasted malts are the basis for the fine, spicy malt flavor. An extraordinary pleasure of old Bavaria.
Style description: Münich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Löwenbräu
Photo credit: troydo.com
Style: Münich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
From the Löwenbräu website:
A traditional Bavarian specialty beer from Münich. Dark, full-bodied and delicately aromatic malt flavor. A result of balanced ingredients and highest brewing expertise. Special, dark roasted malts are the basis for the fine, spicy malt flavor. An extraordinary pleasure of old Bavaria.
Style description: Münich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Löwenbräu
Photo credit: troydo.com
Löwenbräu - Oktoberfestbier
Löwenbräu - Oktoberfestbier
Style: Märzen/Oktoberfest
ABV: 6.1%
Origin: München, Germany
Translated from the website:
Every year in the autumn - and for more than 200 years - the unmistakable reputation of Oktoberfest has attracted millions of visitors to the Oktoberfest in Munich, the world's largest folk festival. On the new label of the Löwenbräu Oktoberfest beer, a classic Wiesn service is already smiling at the Wiesn specialty in front of the well-known Löwenbräu tower.
Style description: Märzen/Oktoberfest
Link to product website: Löwenbräu
Style: Märzen/Oktoberfest
ABV: 6.1%
Origin: München, Germany
Translated from the website:
Every year in the autumn - and for more than 200 years - the unmistakable reputation of Oktoberfest has attracted millions of visitors to the Oktoberfest in Munich, the world's largest folk festival. On the new label of the Löwenbräu Oktoberfest beer, a classic Wiesn service is already smiling at the Wiesn specialty in front of the well-known Löwenbräu tower.
Style description: Märzen/Oktoberfest
Link to product website: Löwenbräu
Löwenbräu - Original
Löwenbräu - Original
Style: Münich Helles Lager
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: München, Germany
Translated from the website:
Munich has many originals, but only a particular original from Munich has such a refreshing and refined taste as this traditional Löwenbräu, which is a taste for every occasion. The best raw materials and a refined taste make this light beer a genuine Bavarian drink.
Style description: Münich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Löwenbräu
Photo credit: braukaiser.com
Style: Münich Helles Lager
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: München, Germany
Translated from the website:
Munich has many originals, but only a particular original from Munich has such a refreshing and refined taste as this traditional Löwenbräu, which is a taste for every occasion. The best raw materials and a refined taste make this light beer a genuine Bavarian drink.
Style description: Münich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Löwenbräu
Photo credit: braukaiser.com
Hofbräu - Maibock
Hofbräu - Maibock
Style: Maibock
ABV: 7.2%
Origin: München, Germany
By tradition, the first barrel of Maibock is tapped in the Hofbräuhaus in the last week of April, in time for the merry month of May. The success story of Munich's oldest bock beer goes back as far as 1614.
With its powerfully aromatic flavour and its alcoholic content of some 7.2% volume, Hofbräu Maibock marks one of the high points in the beer-lover's calendar!
Style description: Maibock
Link to product website: Hofbräu
Style: Maibock
ABV: 7.2%
Origin: München, Germany
By tradition, the first barrel of Maibock is tapped in the Hofbräuhaus in the last week of April, in time for the merry month of May. The success story of Munich's oldest bock beer goes back as far as 1614.
With its powerfully aromatic flavour and its alcoholic content of some 7.2% volume, Hofbräu Maibock marks one of the high points in the beer-lover's calendar!
Style description: Maibock
Link to product website: Hofbräu
Hofbräu - Oktoberfestbier
Hofbräu - Oktoberfestbier
Style: Märzen / Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
The Munich Beer Festival, or Oktoberfest, is an event of superlatives - it's the largest popular festival in the world, staging in the beer metropolis of Munich. Millions of visitors from all over the world flock along every year to enjoy its very special atmosphere.
For this occasion, Hofbräu brews a rich, full-bodied beer which goes down ideally with traditional Bavarian cuisine. With its deliciously bitter taste and alcoholic content of 6.3% by volume, Hofbräu Oktoberfestbier is as special as the Beer Festival itself.
Style description: Oktoberfest / Märzen
Link to product website: Hofbräu
Style: Märzen / Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
The Munich Beer Festival, or Oktoberfest, is an event of superlatives - it's the largest popular festival in the world, staging in the beer metropolis of Munich. Millions of visitors from all over the world flock along every year to enjoy its very special atmosphere.
For this occasion, Hofbräu brews a rich, full-bodied beer which goes down ideally with traditional Bavarian cuisine. With its deliciously bitter taste and alcoholic content of 6.3% by volume, Hofbräu Oktoberfestbier is as special as the Beer Festival itself.
Style description: Oktoberfest / Märzen
Link to product website: Hofbräu
Hofbräu - Dunkel
Hofbräu - Dunkel
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
"Hofbräuhaus Dark" is a bottom-fermented dark beer, which is considered the archetype of Bavarian beer to be called "Munich style". There were dark beers in Bavaria long before light beers, so it was dark beer which was first brewed in the "Brauerei Hofbräuhaus" at its founding in 1589. The dark brown Hofbräu dunkel, with an alcohol content of 5.5% by volume, has a creamy lather and malty bouquet with notes of caramel. Its flavor is roasty, hoppy with a subtle malt sweetness in the finish. A traditional Munich beer!
Pairings: Sumptuous dishes like stuffed poultry and game, mushroom dishes and desserts.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Hofbräu
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
"Hofbräuhaus Dark" is a bottom-fermented dark beer, which is considered the archetype of Bavarian beer to be called "Munich style". There were dark beers in Bavaria long before light beers, so it was dark beer which was first brewed in the "Brauerei Hofbräuhaus" at its founding in 1589. The dark brown Hofbräu dunkel, with an alcohol content of 5.5% by volume, has a creamy lather and malty bouquet with notes of caramel. Its flavor is roasty, hoppy with a subtle malt sweetness in the finish. A traditional Munich beer!
Pairings: Sumptuous dishes like stuffed poultry and game, mushroom dishes and desserts.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: Hofbräu
Hofbrau - Münchner Weisse
Hofbrau - Münchner Weisse
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.1%
Origin: München, Germany
From the product website:
Once upon a time, Weissbier could only be brewed by ducal privilege. Hofbräuhaus enjoyed this exclusive right for nearly 200 years, thus holding a monopoly on Weissbier in Bavaria. But even without a monopoly, Münchner Weisse is a really special kind of beer. What could be more pleasurable than quenching your thirst with a deliciously yeasty Weissbier, and savouring the tingling, fizzy sensation in your mouth? With an alcoholic content of around 5,1% volume, it's pure, refreshing enjoyment.
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Hofbrau
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.1%
Origin: München, Germany
From the product website:
Once upon a time, Weissbier could only be brewed by ducal privilege. Hofbräuhaus enjoyed this exclusive right for nearly 200 years, thus holding a monopoly on Weissbier in Bavaria. But even without a monopoly, Münchner Weisse is a really special kind of beer. What could be more pleasurable than quenching your thirst with a deliciously yeasty Weissbier, and savouring the tingling, fizzy sensation in your mouth? With an alcoholic content of around 5,1% volume, it's pure, refreshing enjoyment.
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Hofbrau
Hacker-Pschorr - Animator
Hacker-Pschorr - Animator
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 8.1%
Origin: München, Germany
Translated from the Hacker-Pschorr website:
A feast for the eyes; a tart-sweet temptation for your taste buds. A great appearance: dark mahogany color in the glass, our animator is attractive, with a seductively creamy, creamy froth.
A true explosion of flavors and taste impressions: Sweet shades of brown sugar, marzipan and a hint of licorice meet fruity flavors such as apricot and exotic fruit. Even the first sip is a revelation: Hearty chocolate and roasted flavors unfold and are complemented by a fine sherry and brandy note.
Last, but not least, the selected hops of our animator makes for a bitter-sweet temptation. With 19% wort, natural and unfiltered, this double bock receives the predicate "particularly valuable" from our brewers.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Hacker-Pschorr
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 8.1%
Origin: München, Germany
Translated from the Hacker-Pschorr website:
A feast for the eyes; a tart-sweet temptation for your taste buds. A great appearance: dark mahogany color in the glass, our animator is attractive, with a seductively creamy, creamy froth.
A true explosion of flavors and taste impressions: Sweet shades of brown sugar, marzipan and a hint of licorice meet fruity flavors such as apricot and exotic fruit. Even the first sip is a revelation: Hearty chocolate and roasted flavors unfold and are complemented by a fine sherry and brandy note.
Last, but not least, the selected hops of our animator makes for a bitter-sweet temptation. With 19% wort, natural and unfiltered, this double bock receives the predicate "particularly valuable" from our brewers.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Hacker-Pschorr
Hacker Pschorr - Original Oktoberfest
Hacker Pschorr - Original Oktoberfest
Style: Märzen/Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.8%
Origin: München, Germany
When Ludwig I, the Crown Prince of Bavaria, was to celebrate his wedding in Munich in 1810, he decided it was an occasion for all of Bavaria to celebrate. He commissioned Joseph Pschorr, then the brewmaster of the Hacker-Pschorr brewery, among other Munich brewers, to develop special brews to commemorate the occasion. The beer was so good that the party lasted for days and Oktoberfest beer was born.
Subsequent annual celebrations evolved into the city of Munich’s world-famous Oktoberfest, which is attended by over 6 million people each year, who in 2003 consumed over 6 million liters of beer. By Munich law, only the six breweries within the city limits of Munich are invited to serve their beer at Oktoberfest. Hacker-Pschorr is one of the six, as is its sister brand, Paulaner.
Style description: Märzen/Oktoberfest
Link to product website: Hacker Pschorr
Photo credit: goodbeerfest.com
Style: Märzen/Oktoberfest
ABV: 5.8%
Origin: München, Germany
When Ludwig I, the Crown Prince of Bavaria, was to celebrate his wedding in Munich in 1810, he decided it was an occasion for all of Bavaria to celebrate. He commissioned Joseph Pschorr, then the brewmaster of the Hacker-Pschorr brewery, among other Munich brewers, to develop special brews to commemorate the occasion. The beer was so good that the party lasted for days and Oktoberfest beer was born.
Subsequent annual celebrations evolved into the city of Munich’s world-famous Oktoberfest, which is attended by over 6 million people each year, who in 2003 consumed over 6 million liters of beer. By Munich law, only the six breweries within the city limits of Munich are invited to serve their beer at Oktoberfest. Hacker-Pschorr is one of the six, as is its sister brand, Paulaner.
Style description: Märzen/Oktoberfest
Link to product website: Hacker Pschorr
Photo credit: goodbeerfest.com
Hacker Pschorr - Münchner Gold
Hacker Pschorr - Münchner Gold
Style: Munich Helles Lager
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
Clear, golden-yellow with a one-inch head. Strong carbonation is clearly evident. Mild hop and faint malt aromas. Hop and malt balance is great. Very clean and crisp, but overall flavor is a very weak, even for its style. The mouthfeel is light, but suits the style well, I suppose.
Not terrible, but not impressive, either. Definitely not a BIG beer, by any means, but a refreshing, easy-drinking lager. It should pair well with mildly seasoned foods; salads, fish/seafood, poultry and mild cheeses.
Translated text from the product website:
In 1893 Hacker Bräu AG brewed the first helles lager in Munich - the Mücher GOLD. True to the tradition of new ideas and old virtues, Hacker-Pschorr brewery brought this species back to life in 2005. A quaffable beer with a distinctive bright golden tint. Full bodied and finely hopped, the "new" MUNICH GOLD export beer. The original gravity gives this slightly stronger bottom-fermented export beer its typical bright, golden color.
Style description for Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Hacker Pschorr
Style: Munich Helles Lager
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
Clear, golden-yellow with a one-inch head. Strong carbonation is clearly evident. Mild hop and faint malt aromas. Hop and malt balance is great. Very clean and crisp, but overall flavor is a very weak, even for its style. The mouthfeel is light, but suits the style well, I suppose.
Not terrible, but not impressive, either. Definitely not a BIG beer, by any means, but a refreshing, easy-drinking lager. It should pair well with mildly seasoned foods; salads, fish/seafood, poultry and mild cheeses.
Translated text from the product website:
In 1893 Hacker Bräu AG brewed the first helles lager in Munich - the Mücher GOLD. True to the tradition of new ideas and old virtues, Hacker-Pschorr brewery brought this species back to life in 2005. A quaffable beer with a distinctive bright golden tint. Full bodied and finely hopped, the "new" MUNICH GOLD export beer. The original gravity gives this slightly stronger bottom-fermented export beer its typical bright, golden color.
Style description for Munich Helles Lager
Link to product website: Hacker Pschorr
Hacker Pschorr - Hefe Weisse
Hacker Pschorr - Hefe Weisse
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
From the product website:
A truly magnificent picture. Silky shine and intense yellow gold, completed by a compact, creamy foam head
gently caressing spreads from the yeast. Wonderfully refreshing, the fruity-citrus-like note, accompanied by a fine tangy acidity. On the tongue merges the slight sweetness of banana and honey with a little more austere, slightly spicy nutmeg.
For our unfiltered white only the best ingredients are used: brewing wheat grown in the Champagne region and selected seal hops from the Hallertau. A special brewing process makes this beer to what it promises: a gustatory masterpiece.
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Hacker-Pschorr
Photo credit: ayearofbeer.wordpress.com
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.5%
Origin: München, Germany
From the product website:
A truly magnificent picture. Silky shine and intense yellow gold, completed by a compact, creamy foam head
gently caressing spreads from the yeast. Wonderfully refreshing, the fruity-citrus-like note, accompanied by a fine tangy acidity. On the tongue merges the slight sweetness of banana and honey with a little more austere, slightly spicy nutmeg.
For our unfiltered white only the best ingredients are used: brewing wheat grown in the Champagne region and selected seal hops from the Hallertau. A special brewing process makes this beer to what it promises: a gustatory masterpiece.
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Hacker-Pschorr
Photo credit: ayearofbeer.wordpress.com
Tucher - Bajuvator
Tucher - Bajuvator
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.5%
Origin: Nürnberg, Germany
Doppelbock literally translates to "double bock" and Tucher Bajuvator, with 7.5% alcohol, is the prime example of what a Dopplebock should be.
Tucher Bajuvator pours a dark, rich, chestnut brown with a thick, cream colored head. Its scent is delectable with malty caramels and hints of fruit.
However, it is really the taste that sets this Dopplebock apart from others. It has a smooth full bodied mouth feel and its very complex malt flavors are pronounced from start to finish. A note of toffee, caramel, honey and chocolate are apparent, with a hint of smoke and spice. There's the perfect amount of hops to round out the flavor with a bready finish and a sweet hint of alcohol.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Tucher
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.5%
Origin: Nürnberg, Germany
Doppelbock literally translates to "double bock" and Tucher Bajuvator, with 7.5% alcohol, is the prime example of what a Dopplebock should be.
Tucher Bajuvator pours a dark, rich, chestnut brown with a thick, cream colored head. Its scent is delectable with malty caramels and hints of fruit.
However, it is really the taste that sets this Dopplebock apart from others. It has a smooth full bodied mouth feel and its very complex malt flavors are pronounced from start to finish. A note of toffee, caramel, honey and chocolate are apparent, with a hint of smoke and spice. There's the perfect amount of hops to round out the flavor with a bready finish and a sweet hint of alcohol.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Tucher
Tucher - Helles Hefe Weizen
Tucher - Helles Hefe Weizen
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: Nürnberg, Germany
From the product website:
Tucher Helles Hefe Weizen is brewed using a recipe that has been handed down from the former royal Bavarian wheat brewery in Nuremberg. The beer’s distinctive mixture of light wheat and barely malts and its natural yeast turbidity guarantee a refreshing wheat beer flavor with a hint of yeast.
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Tucher
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: Nürnberg, Germany
From the product website:
Tucher Helles Hefe Weizen is brewed using a recipe that has been handed down from the former royal Bavarian wheat brewery in Nuremberg. The beer’s distinctive mixture of light wheat and barely malts and its natural yeast turbidity guarantee a refreshing wheat beer flavor with a hint of yeast.
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Tucher
Uerige - Doppelsticke
Uerige - Doppelsticke
Style: Altbier
ABV: 8.5%
Origin: Düsseldorf, Germany
Since 2005, UERIGE has been brewing a special extra strong beer for the U.S. market. DoppelSticke's abv is 8.5% and yet there’s no mistaking its flavor.
Apart from being sold in the USA, this rarity can only be obtained at the STICKUM bar – that is, if it is in store. This beer also has a guaranteed minimum storage period of four weeks, but true aficionados take this to be a mere suggestion. They swear by storing their DoppelSticke in the cellar for another whole year.
"After the gigantic herbal aroma of hops that surprises the palate at the first tasting, aromatic sensations follow midway: caramelized sugar, malt and herbs, rich nuances of dark chocolate and rum, rounded off with a smooth and shimmering finish." - Michael Jackson, beer writer
Style description: Altbier
Link to product website: Uerige
Photo credit: alestolagers.blogspot.com
Style: Altbier
ABV: 8.5%
Origin: Düsseldorf, Germany
Since 2005, UERIGE has been brewing a special extra strong beer for the U.S. market. DoppelSticke's abv is 8.5% and yet there’s no mistaking its flavor.
Apart from being sold in the USA, this rarity can only be obtained at the STICKUM bar – that is, if it is in store. This beer also has a guaranteed minimum storage period of four weeks, but true aficionados take this to be a mere suggestion. They swear by storing their DoppelSticke in the cellar for another whole year.
"After the gigantic herbal aroma of hops that surprises the palate at the first tasting, aromatic sensations follow midway: caramelized sugar, malt and herbs, rich nuances of dark chocolate and rum, rounded off with a smooth and shimmering finish." - Michael Jackson, beer writer
Style description: Altbier
Link to product website: Uerige
Photo credit: alestolagers.blogspot.com
Radeberger - Pilsener
Radeberger - Pilsener
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Radeberg, Saxony, Germany
Radeberger Pilsener, brought to you by the first brewery in Germany to brew beer in the traditional Pilsner manner.
Radeberger Pilsener has been brewed by the Radeberger Exportbierbrauerei since its founding in 1872. The quality of this pale lager was so outstanding that the Royal Court of Saxony and Prince Otto von Bismarck appointed the brewery as purveyor of their courts. From that time, Radeberger Pilsener embarked on a triumphant course throughout Germany and continues to rank among the top ten beers in Germany today.
Style decription: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Radeberger
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Radeberg, Saxony, Germany
Radeberger Pilsener, brought to you by the first brewery in Germany to brew beer in the traditional Pilsner manner.
Radeberger Pilsener has been brewed by the Radeberger Exportbierbrauerei since its founding in 1872. The quality of this pale lager was so outstanding that the Royal Court of Saxony and Prince Otto von Bismarck appointed the brewery as purveyor of their courts. From that time, Radeberger Pilsener embarked on a triumphant course throughout Germany and continues to rank among the top ten beers in Germany today.
Style decription: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Radeberger
Kostritzer - Schwarzbier
Kostritzer - Schwarzbier
Style: Schwarzbier
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Bad Köstritz/Thüringen, Germany
From a distributor website:
An authentic smooth and full-bodied dark lager with a touch of sweetness. The subtle malty tones and hint of chocolate offer so much more than a standard lager.
Köstritzer Black Lager is a characterful, smooth, full-bodied dark lager.
It’s much more complex than other lagers, with subtle tones of malt and chocolate. Interesting and unique, it’s brewed at one of Germany’s oldest breweries in Bad Köstritz, which dates back to 1543.
Style description: Schwarzbier
Link to product website: Kostritzer
Photo credit: biervat.blogspot.com
Style: Schwarzbier
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Bad Köstritz/Thüringen, Germany
From a distributor website:
An authentic smooth and full-bodied dark lager with a touch of sweetness. The subtle malty tones and hint of chocolate offer so much more than a standard lager.
Köstritzer Black Lager is a characterful, smooth, full-bodied dark lager.
It’s much more complex than other lagers, with subtle tones of malt and chocolate. Interesting and unique, it’s brewed at one of Germany’s oldest breweries in Bad Köstritz, which dates back to 1543.
Style description: Schwarzbier
Link to product website: Kostritzer
Photo credit: biervat.blogspot.com
Bitburger - Premium Pils
Bitburger - Premium Pils
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Bitburg/Eifel, Germany
From a distributor website:
Brewed exclusively in Bitburg, Germany since 1817, tradition and perfection are the rules that make Bitburger Premium German Beer so special. A combination of traditional brewer’s craft and state-of-the-art technology has not only created one of the world’s leading breweries, but also a world-renowned classic Pilsner.
In accordance with the German Purity Law of 1516, Bitburger’s unsurpassable quality, unique flavour and natural freshness come from only the finest four ingredients – carefully selected spring barley, pure, crystal clear water of the Eifel, and the finest locally grown dry hops and yeast from their own pure culture sources.
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Bitburger
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 4.8%
Origin: Bitburg/Eifel, Germany
From a distributor website:
Brewed exclusively in Bitburg, Germany since 1817, tradition and perfection are the rules that make Bitburger Premium German Beer so special. A combination of traditional brewer’s craft and state-of-the-art technology has not only created one of the world’s leading breweries, but also a world-renowned classic Pilsner.
In accordance with the German Purity Law of 1516, Bitburger’s unsurpassable quality, unique flavour and natural freshness come from only the finest four ingredients – carefully selected spring barley, pure, crystal clear water of the Eifel, and the finest locally grown dry hops and yeast from their own pure culture sources.
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Bitburger
Andechs - Doppel Bock Dunkel
Andechs - Doppel Bock Dunkel
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.1%
Origin: Andechs, Germany
This world famous bock from Bavaria’s Holy Mountain is not meant to be rushed, but savoured slowly. As solid as a rock, Andechser Doppelbock Dunkel presides over the evening meal with a colour reminiscent of dark copper with nuances of fiery red. Its clear gleaming look harmonises with its firm, fine pored head.
Also the aroma delights the connoisseur: soft roasted accents and a nuance of dried fruit carrying a vein of caramel. This Doppelbock Dunkel from Bavaria’s Holy Mountain presents a pleasant effervescence. And then there’s the unmistakable flavour: mouthcoating and velvety, strong and yet pleasantly malty – a powerful, robust body. At the same time, it develops an easily recognisable sweetness, embraced in roasted cocoa and a light, bitter hoppiness.
Concluding with a powerful punch, this Doppelbock departs with a lingering aftertaste of quality plain chocolate. A strong Doppelbock that embodies the centuries old Benedictine brewing tradition, sip by delicious sip.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Andechs
Style: Doppelbock
ABV: 7.1%
Origin: Andechs, Germany
This world famous bock from Bavaria’s Holy Mountain is not meant to be rushed, but savoured slowly. As solid as a rock, Andechser Doppelbock Dunkel presides over the evening meal with a colour reminiscent of dark copper with nuances of fiery red. Its clear gleaming look harmonises with its firm, fine pored head.
Also the aroma delights the connoisseur: soft roasted accents and a nuance of dried fruit carrying a vein of caramel. This Doppelbock Dunkel from Bavaria’s Holy Mountain presents a pleasant effervescence. And then there’s the unmistakable flavour: mouthcoating and velvety, strong and yet pleasantly malty – a powerful, robust body. At the same time, it develops an easily recognisable sweetness, embraced in roasted cocoa and a light, bitter hoppiness.
Concluding with a powerful punch, this Doppelbock departs with a lingering aftertaste of quality plain chocolate. A strong Doppelbock that embodies the centuries old Benedictine brewing tradition, sip by delicious sip.
Style description: Doppelbock
Link to product website: Andechs
Andechs - Weissbier Dunkel
Andechs - Weissbier Dunkel
Style: Dunkelweizen
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: Andechs, Germany
This dark Weissbier retains its aromatic character thanks to the select choice of Hallertau aroma hops and highest quality Bavarian wheat and dark barley malts.
Its characteristic, distinctive maroon colour is a feast for the eyes. Then there’s the opalescence and fine structure of the yeast turbidity. The perfect complement is provided by the very creamy, fine pored head. This dark Weissbier from the Holy Mountain will delight connoisseurs with a harmonious interplay of fruity odours, above all ripe bananas and pineapple, with undertones of caramel and cocoa.
Andechser Weissbier Dunkel teases the tongue with a delicate tanginess carried by a round, soft body. A light caramel sweetness harmonises well with the fine hoppy bitterness. It concludes on a soft and refreshing note
Style description: Dunkelweizen
Link to product website: Andechs
Style: Dunkelweizen
ABV: 4.9%
Origin: Andechs, Germany
This dark Weissbier retains its aromatic character thanks to the select choice of Hallertau aroma hops and highest quality Bavarian wheat and dark barley malts.
Its characteristic, distinctive maroon colour is a feast for the eyes. Then there’s the opalescence and fine structure of the yeast turbidity. The perfect complement is provided by the very creamy, fine pored head. This dark Weissbier from the Holy Mountain will delight connoisseurs with a harmonious interplay of fruity odours, above all ripe bananas and pineapple, with undertones of caramel and cocoa.
Andechser Weissbier Dunkel teases the tongue with a delicate tanginess carried by a round, soft body. A light caramel sweetness harmonises well with the fine hoppy bitterness. It concludes on a soft and refreshing note
Style description: Dunkelweizen
Link to product website: Andechs
Augustiner - Weissbier
Augustiner - Weissbier
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.4%
Origin: München, Germany
From the product website:
An amber coloured wheat beer, brewed according to traditional and well-tried procedures as well as with thorough selected raw materials. This beer receives its easy digestibleness and its delicate spicy taste from its fermentation, up to full maturity, in bottles and its careful storage within Augustiner's own ripening vaults. Ingredients: water, wheat malt, barley malt, hops, yeast.
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Augustinerbrau
Style: Hefeweizen
ABV: 5.4%
Origin: München, Germany
From the product website:
An amber coloured wheat beer, brewed according to traditional and well-tried procedures as well as with thorough selected raw materials. This beer receives its easy digestibleness and its delicate spicy taste from its fermentation, up to full maturity, in bottles and its careful storage within Augustiner's own ripening vaults. Ingredients: water, wheat malt, barley malt, hops, yeast.
Style decsription: Hefeweizen
Link to product website: Augustinerbrau
Franziskaner Weissbier - Naturtrüb
Franziskaner Weissbier - Naturtrüb
Style: Hefeweizen ABV: 5.0% Origin: Münich, Germany "Franziskaner Weissbier yeast Naturtrüb is a natural and elegant wheat beer from Bavaria protagonist with a lush white foam. The copper-golden wheat beer with hefetrüber opalescence unfolds an aromatic scent with harmonious fruit in the banana and citrus fruits are greeting. Due to the higher content of carbon dioxide, it is particularly sparkling. Its distinctive fresh, subtly spicy and fruity taste with mild-sweet finale unfolds Franziskaner Weissbier yeast Naturtrüb to an enjoyable aftertaste. The naturally cloudy Franziskaner is just right for the enjoyable and relaxed time-out after work in the bar, in the restaurant for dinner or at home. Independently, honest and likeable. Franciscan Naturtrüb goes well with meat dishes - best straight from the grill." - Franziskaner website |
Franziskaner Weissbier - Dunkel
Franziskaner Weissbier - Dunkel
Style: Dunkelweizen
ABV: 5.0%
Origin: Münich, Germany
"Franziskaner Weissbier Dunkel has a lush, creamy foam and a dark amber color with a strong yeast turbidity.
The sensual baroque appearance from Bavaria smells of malt with subtle notes of fresh bread, nuts and caramel are evident. The soft, velvety mouthfeel and refreshing tangy body make the dark wheat beer into something special.
The Franziskaner Weissbier specialty is by its aromatic, full-bodied and well-balanced finale a treat and the perfect break for wheat beer connoisseur and lover of dark beers.
Franziskaner Weissbier yeast Dark goes perfectly with red meats, such as Game dishes or desserts." - Franziskaner website
Style description: Dunkelweizen
Link to product website: Franziskaner
Style: Dunkelweizen
ABV: 5.0%
Origin: Münich, Germany
"Franziskaner Weissbier Dunkel has a lush, creamy foam and a dark amber color with a strong yeast turbidity.
The sensual baroque appearance from Bavaria smells of malt with subtle notes of fresh bread, nuts and caramel are evident. The soft, velvety mouthfeel and refreshing tangy body make the dark wheat beer into something special.
The Franziskaner Weissbier specialty is by its aromatic, full-bodied and well-balanced finale a treat and the perfect break for wheat beer connoisseur and lover of dark beers.
Franziskaner Weissbier yeast Dark goes perfectly with red meats, such as Game dishes or desserts." - Franziskaner website
Style description: Dunkelweizen
Link to product website: Franziskaner
König Ludwig - Dunkel
König Ludwig - Dunkel
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.1%
Origin: Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany
The history of König Ludwig Dunkel goes back to the year 1516 and has a very long tradition in Bavaria in particular. Today König Ludwig Dunkel is the most popular dark beer in Germany. It is brewed with the best roasted barley malt and bitter and aroma hops. Spicy and malty in taste, this style is the preferred drink during the cooler seasons. Selected ingredients from southern Germany, a special brewing process, and the typical bottom fermentation make this beer very drinkable. HRH Luitpold, Prince of Bavaria pays personal attention to the high quality of this beer.
König Ludwig Dunkel received the silver medal for the Asia Beer Award 2010 in the dark beer category.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: König Ludwig
Style: Munich Dunkel Lager
ABV: 5.1%
Origin: Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany
The history of König Ludwig Dunkel goes back to the year 1516 and has a very long tradition in Bavaria in particular. Today König Ludwig Dunkel is the most popular dark beer in Germany. It is brewed with the best roasted barley malt and bitter and aroma hops. Spicy and malty in taste, this style is the preferred drink during the cooler seasons. Selected ingredients from southern Germany, a special brewing process, and the typical bottom fermentation make this beer very drinkable. HRH Luitpold, Prince of Bavaria pays personal attention to the high quality of this beer.
König Ludwig Dunkel received the silver medal for the Asia Beer Award 2010 in the dark beer category.
Style description: Munich Dunkel Lager
Link to product website: König Ludwig
Pinkus - Ur-Pils
Pinkus - Ur-Pils
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: Münster, Germany
Golden pilsner with bright, elegant bitterness was developed in Pilsen, Czechoslovakia, in the mid-19th century and German brewers began to brew "pils" very soon after. Pinkus Ur Pils, brewed with organic malt and hops, has another connection to the beers of 150 years ago: no chemical fertilizers or pesticides are used to produce the malt and hops. "Ur" translates roughly from German to "original."
Taste: Pale golden in color; light to medium in body; dry and well-balanced; clean hop and malt character.
Serving Suggestions:
Trout amandine, fresh salmon, hors d'oeuvres, Quiche Lorraine, Cobb salad, gazpacho, tabouli, garlic and shallot sauces, thick potato chips, fresh strawberries or cherries. Serve in delicate, straight-sided tumblers at 45 °F.
Accolades:
• "Top organic beer." - Barleycorn News
• "Excellent," Four stars; "very balanced, very proper." Ale Street News, Aug/Sept '10
• Gold Medal and "Best of 2003," - World Beer Championships
• Certified Organic by the USDA-accredited ABCERT GmbH.
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Pinkus
Photo credit: sudsavant.blogspot.com
Style: German Pilsner
ABV: 5.2%
Origin: Münster, Germany
Golden pilsner with bright, elegant bitterness was developed in Pilsen, Czechoslovakia, in the mid-19th century and German brewers began to brew "pils" very soon after. Pinkus Ur Pils, brewed with organic malt and hops, has another connection to the beers of 150 years ago: no chemical fertilizers or pesticides are used to produce the malt and hops. "Ur" translates roughly from German to "original."
Taste: Pale golden in color; light to medium in body; dry and well-balanced; clean hop and malt character.
Serving Suggestions:
Trout amandine, fresh salmon, hors d'oeuvres, Quiche Lorraine, Cobb salad, gazpacho, tabouli, garlic and shallot sauces, thick potato chips, fresh strawberries or cherries. Serve in delicate, straight-sided tumblers at 45 °F.
Accolades:
• "Top organic beer." - Barleycorn News
• "Excellent," Four stars; "very balanced, very proper." Ale Street News, Aug/Sept '10
• Gold Medal and "Best of 2003," - World Beer Championships
• Certified Organic by the USDA-accredited ABCERT GmbH.
Style description: German Pilsner
Link to product website: Pinkus
Photo credit: sudsavant.blogspot.com