Broadway Brewery’s Rise & Fall Octoberfest is their seasonal nod to fall, offering a fresh take on the traditional Märzen style lager. It’s a beer that blends classic autumn vibes with a few modern twists, making it a standout option for Oktoberfest lovers. Here’s my breakdown.
Appearance: 4/5
The beer pours a gorgeous amber-copper hue with a creamy, off-white head. It’s got that perfect fall color, reminiscent of the changing leaves. The head is thick initially but fades quicker than I’d like. Still, it’s a beautiful beer in the glass, with good clarity and a welcoming, autumnal glow.
Aroma: 4.5/5
The aroma hits all the right notes for an Oktoberfest. Rich malts take center stage with a strong presence of toasted bread, caramel, and a hint of toffee. There’s a nutty undertone that adds complexity, and you can pick up just a whiff of earthy hops. It’s malt-forward and cozy, just what you’d expect from this style. However, I’d say it could use a bit more depth or spiciness to really shine.
Taste: 4/5
Taste-wise, Rise & Fall doesn’t disappoint. The malts lead the way, delivering a smooth, toasty flavor with caramel sweetness and a touch of biscuit. As you sip, there’s a slight hop bitterness that comes in at the end—unexpected but welcome. It helps balance out the sweetness, giving the beer a cleaner, crisper finish. Some traditionalists might prefer a softer, maltier finish, but the hops here make this brew feel lighter and more drinkable. For me, it adds a bit of complexity, but for purists, it might stray too far from the classic Oktoberfest profile.
Mouthfeel: 3.5/5
This beer has a medium body, with a smooth and slightly creamy texture. The carbonation is moderate, which keeps it from feeling flat, but it’s not as soft or lush as some other Oktoberfests I’ve tried. The finish is a little drier than I’d expect for the style, which makes it very easy to drink, but I did find myself wanting just a bit more richness to round it out.
Overall: 4/5
Broadway Brewery’s Rise & Fall is a solid Oktoberfest beer that stays pretty true to tradition while offering a refreshing twist. It’s malt-forward with just enough hop bitterness to keep it balanced and easy to drink. It’s not the richest or most complex Oktoberfest out there, but it’s highly enjoyable, especially for those who like a slightly crisper finish. The bitterness might throw off die-hard Märzen fans, but it gives the beer its own character, which I appreciate.
Final Thoughts:
If you’re in the mood for an Oktoberfest beer that’s a little different but still hits all the right seasonal notes, Rise & Fall is worth a try. It’s got the toasty, malty backbone you want, with just a touch of hops to keep things interesting. Perfect for fall evenings, tailgating, or just kicking back as the weather cools.
If you’ve tried Broadway’s Rise & Fall, please let us know your thoughts about it in the comments below.
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