Märzen (Oktoberfest beer)

Märzen is a bottom-fermented beer with a somewhat higher original gravity, usually about 13 to 14 percent, and an alcohol content of around 5.5 to 6 percent ABV. The name refers to the month of March: before refrigeration, the last beer of the brewing season was brewed in March and stored in a cool cellar over summer.

Historically Märzen is amber and tastes malty, bready and lightly roasted. Today paler interpretations are also common, for instance as festival beer at Oktoberfest. Hopping is moderate and the beer feels round and full-bodied. Märzen pairs well with hearty dishes such as roast meat, pork knuckle or a cold platter.