Overall Rating: 7.5/10
Leinenkugel’s (Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin) Oktoberfest is a classic, approachable take on the Märzen style that’s perfect for fall weather and beer festivals. This isn’t your most traditional or complex Oktoberfest beer, but it’s got some charm that keeps me coming back, especially when I’m in the mood for something easy-drinking.
Appearance: 4/5
Right off the bat, it pours a deep amber-copper color, crystal clear, with a fluffy off-white head that lingers for a bit. The color is spot-on for the style—definitely makes you feel like you’re about to sip something that pairs perfectly with crisp autumn air.
Aroma: 7/10
On the nose, you get a light, malty sweetness with hints of caramel and toasted bread. There’s a bit of a floral hop aroma, but it’s faint—just enough to give it a fresh touch. The malt profile is pleasant but not overly complex. It smells like you’ve walked into a cozy bakery or grabbed a loaf of fresh bread.
Taste: 8/10
This is where it really shines for me. The flavor is malt-forward, just like you’d want from an Oktoberfest, with caramel and biscuit notes leading the way. There’s a touch of toffee sweetness, which balances nicely with a subtle hop bitterness that prevents it from being overly sweet. It’s got that clean, smooth taste that makes it super drinkable. It’s not going to knock you out with complexity, but that’s part of its charm—it’s straightforward, and sometimes that’s all you need.
Mouthfeel: 3.5/5
Medium-bodied, leaning toward the lighter side for a Märzen. It’s got a crisp finish with just a bit of dryness, making it easy to drink more than one without feeling too weighed down. Carbonation is moderate, giving it a nice, refreshing bite.
Overall Impression
Leinenkugel’s 2024 Oktoberfest is a solid, dependable brew, especially if you’re looking for something approachable and light enough to enjoy a few of during an afternoon hangout. It’s not the most complex Oktoberfest out there, and if you’re a Märzen purist, you might find it a bit too light in body and flavor. The malt character could be deeper, and a little more richness would elevate it. But honestly, that’s nitpicking—sometimes, you just want a good beer that fits the mood, and this one does the job.
Would I recommend it? There’s definitely better Oktoberfest options out there, but if you’re hosting a gathering or just want to kick back with an easy-drinking fall beer, it’s a good option. Just don’t expect it to rival the heavy hitters from Munich—but hey, for an American take on an Oktoberfest, it’s definitely worth a try.
If you’ve tried Leinie’s Oktoberfest, leave us your opinion of it in the comments below.
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