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Harpoon Octoberfest

ABOUT THE STYLE

BEER SPECIFICATIONS

Style:Marzen/Octoberfest
History:
brewed since 1990
Orig. Gravity:14.5 P
Color:

Garnet Red 45 EBC

ABV:

5.5%

IBU’S:

30

PAIRING SUGGESTIONS
pork, sausages

Octoberfest beers are brewed with festivals in mind, and Harpoon Octoberfest is no exception.  The Marzen style dates back to the days when refrigeration did not exist, making brewing in the summer impossible.  The term Marzen refers to the month (March) when the last beer was brewed before summer.  This beer would be lagered (stored) in ice caves until brewing resumed in the cool air of October.  At this time, kegs of Marzen were tapped and enjoyed at harvest festivals.  In 1810 at the wedding of Bavarian Crown Ludwig to Princess Theresa von Sachsen-Hildurghausen, the entire city of Munichcelebrated with Marzen beer and the Octoberfest tradition was created.

BEER CHARACTER

The character and complexity of Harpoon Octoberfest comes from the malt and hops.  When looking at a freshly poured Harpoon Octoberfest, you will notice the garnet-red color with a firm, creamy head.  The beer’s color is from a blend of Munich, chocolate, and pale malt.  The thick head results in part from wheat malt added to the grist.  The hop aroma of this beer is not overpowering but it is present.  Tettnang hops add a subtle spice nose that blends with the malt character.  This beer is full-bodied, smooth, and malty.  Willamettehops are used to provide a gentle bitterness and to balance any residual sweetness present from the malt.  The finish is soft and malty with a mild bitterness.

  

The overall character is a rich, full-bodied, maltiness whose sweetness is balanced by generous use of hops. 


  
AVAILABILITY - August to October