Rating: 4.3/5
Boulevard Brewing’s Bob’s 47 Oktoberfest is a classic Märzen-style beer that honors the rich, malty tradition of Oktoberfest brews. Named after Bob Werkowitch, one of Boulevard’s early brewmasters, this seasonal favorite offers a warm, autumnal vibe that’s perfect for fall. If you’re a fan of malty, smooth beers, this one’s worth a try.
First Impressions
The pour is a beautiful, deep amber with a slight reddish tint—exactly what you expect from a traditional Märzen. The beer forms a nice, creamy head that lingers, giving off a warm, inviting look. Right off the bat, you can tell it’s going to be a rich, malty experience.
Aroma
Taking in the aroma, you’re greeted with a balanced blend of sweet, toasty malts and a subtle hint of caramel. There’s a mild breadiness to it, along with a touch of herbal hops that give it some depth. The smell alone feels like the beginning of fall—it’s cozy and rich, with just a slight hop presence to keep things interesting.
Taste
The taste is where Bob’s 47 really shines. Right from the first sip, you get a full-bodied, malty flavor with plenty of caramel, toffee, and a bit of toasted bread. It’s smooth and slightly sweet without being cloying, which is a tough balance to strike in Märzen-style beers.
The hops are definitely present, but they’re more of a subtle background player. They give a slight earthy bitterness that helps to balance out the sweetness of the malts. The beer finishes clean and crisp, with a lingering maltiness that leaves you wanting another sip.
Mouthfeel and Finish
This beer has a medium body that’s just right for an Oktoberfest brew—not too heavy, but definitely substantial enough to be satisfying on a crisp fall day. It’s well-carbonated, which helps keep it from feeling too heavy or syrupy. The finish is smooth, with a soft malt sweetness that doesn’t overpower your palate.
Positives
- Rich, Malty Flavor: If you love malty beers, this one delivers big time. The caramel and toffee notes are warm and satisfying without being overly sweet.
- Perfect for Fall: Bob’s 47 hits all the right notes for a seasonal Oktoberfest beer. It’s rich and comforting, but also crisp and drinkable—ideal for those cooler autumn evenings.
- Balance of Sweetness and Bitterness: The subtle hops in the background keep the beer balanced, so it never feels too sweet or overwhelming.
Negatives
- Could Use More Complexity: While the malty sweetness is delicious, some drinkers might find it a little one-note. If you’re looking for something that evolves with each sip, Bob’s 47 might not have quite the depth you want.
- Limited Hop Presence: While the restrained hops help with balance, hop lovers might find themselves wanting a little more bitterness or complexity on the finish.
Final Thoughts
Boulevard Brewing’s Bob’s 47 Oktoberfest is a solid Märzen that delivers exactly what you’d want from a seasonal Oktoberfest beer: rich malt flavors, smooth drinkability, and just the right balance of sweetness and bitterness. It’s not a beer that’s going to throw you any curveballs, but that’s what makes it so enjoyable—sometimes you just want a beer that hits the spot without too much fuss.
If you’re a fan of Oktoberfest brews or just love a good, malty beer, Bob’s 47 is a great choice. It’s perfect for enjoying at a fall gathering or while relaxing after a long day. Just don’t expect an overly complex experience—this beer is all about easy, malty goodness.
If you’ve tried this beer, let us know what you thought about it in the comments below.
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