Top 5 Oktoberfest beers 2018 ranked – A drinking guide to Oktoberfest

Yes, there are an insane amount of travel festivals around the world. But, I think I’d settle down with Oktoberfest. Why? Just the sight of crazy lots of people clad in traditional Bavarian clothes chugging down perfectly-aged German beers would put me on cloud nine! Being a beer lover myself, a chance to taste some of the finest beers in the world is nothing short of attaining enlightenment. But, are you the lucky ones who are already there to soak in the quintessential beer experience? Then, take a quick look at this fantastic Oktoberfest beers list. And, soon you’ll be immortal!

5. Great Lakes Oktoberfest beer

Four-time medal winner in the world beer championship, Great Lakes Oktoberfest beer is a classic malt that celebrates the harvest season. But, unlike other German breweries, Great Lakes Oktoberfest has a different beginning. Founded by two Irish brothers, Great Lakes started out in Cleveland and is now the standard for American craft beers.

Packed in a medium-full body, this Oktoberfest beer best reflects everything about Autumn. Dark copper-amber in colour, Great Lakes Oktoberfest beer is an explosion of flavours. There is dried fruit, cinnamon, caramel, nutmeg, and hops. Together, they produce a rustic flavour which is creamy and commemorate the end of a warm summer.

4. Spaten Oktoberfest Ur-Märzen

Operating since 1397, the brewery of Spaten-Franziskaner-Bräu is one of the oldest in the world and has a deeper connection to Oktoberfest than any brewery. Wondering why? The first Oktoberfest beer was brewed by Spaten. So, being a part of the tradition and perfecting the art of crafting an Oktoberfest beer is not something new to the company.

Spaten Oktoberfest Ur-Märzen is amber-brass in colour with a medium-low body. The taste is rich and is stronger than any lager. Roasted malts stand out in the beer and there is an underlying sweetness with a tinge of honey and butter. The aroma in this is a bit skunky and the finish is smooth.

3. Paulaner Oktoberfest Bier

Ranked number six in the list of best-selling beers in Germany, Paulaner of 1634 is one of the six breweries to provide Oktoberfest beer. This particular Paulaner Oktoberfest Bier has been in the tradition since 1818 and is a popular classic. It is also this beauty of a beer that got the name Paulaner beyond Bavaria and into the world map.

Paulaner Oktoberfest Bier is a dark lager which when poured is splendid gold and crystal-clear. Take a whiff and there is a faint note of biscuity malt, honey, and sweet caramel. As you dive, there is a heavy taste of bready malts with a spicy overtone. There is also a toffee-like punch and subtle bitter aftertaste.

2. Hacker-Pschorr Oktoberfest

No list of Oktoberfest beers Germany is complete without a mention of Hacker-Pschoor Oktoberfest. Brewing since 1417, Hacker-Pschorr is one of the pioneers in the brewing industry and have been a part of Oktoberfest since its inception. This serves as a strong testimony to the quality of the beers by Hacker-Pschorr and the Oktoberfest beer is no different. It hits the mark with perfection.

A fusion of slowly roasted barely and purest spring water from the Alps, Hacker-Pschorr Oktoberfest beer is red-amber with an orange hue. The flavour is extremely well-balanced with a malty and a nutty texture. The sweet aroma filling the air is what draws you to this beer and the crisp finish will make it a memorable experience.

1. Ayinger Oktober Fest-Märzen

‘Aying, a Complete Work of Art’, the brand philosophy of Ayinger as once described by a famous journal best represents the beer brand. Born out of a 130-year-old brewery in Bavaria, Ayinger needs no introduction and is also one of the frequently awarded Oktoberfest beer. Ayinger Oktober Fest-Märzen, which is a limited edition beer from the brand sells out every year! Yes, it is that good.

Amber-golden in colour, the beer is a deep lager with a rich aroma and a smooth flavour. Matured long-enough, there is a soft dryness and the alcohol isn’t overpowering either. As you gulp down the beer, you get a hint of caramel sweetness which is perfectly balanced by the floral hops.

We can already see you drooling there. So, if you haven’t already planned a trip, plan it now.