KC Bier Co Festbier 2024 Review

Rating: 4.4/5

If you’re craving a taste of Oktoberfest straight from Kansas City, KC Bier Co’s Festbier is definitely worth a try. This seasonal Märzen style lager is KC Bier’s take on a traditional German festbier, and it captures that classic Oktoberfest vibe with a smooth, malty character and just the right amount of hops. While it might not be the most groundbreaking beer out there, it’s a solid choice for fall and perfect for anyone who loves well-balanced, drinkable lagers. Let’s break it down.

First Impressions

Right off the pour, Festbier gives you that beautiful deep amber-gold color typical of a Märzen. It’s crystal clear with a thick, foamy white head that sticks around for a bit, giving it a really nice, inviting appearance. It looks like a beer you’d want to sip at an Oktoberfest celebration—clean and classic, with the perfect amount of carbonation bubbles dancing in the glass.

Aroma

On the nose, it’s all about the malt. You get a nice whiff of caramel, toasted bread, and a touch of biscuit. There’s a slight floral hop presence in the background, but it’s subtle. The aroma screams “fall” with that warm, toasty malt profile that makes you want to grab a pretzel and get cozy. It’s straightforward, but in the best way possible.

Taste

Festbier is a malt lover’s dream, and that’s where this beer shines. The flavor is rich with caramel malts and a toasty, almost nutty character. It’s smooth and well-balanced, with just enough sweetness to remind you it’s a Märzen, but not so much that it feels heavy or cloying. As for the hops, they’re there, but they’re definitely playing a supporting role. You get a touch of floral and earthy bitterness on the back end that rounds things out nicely without overpowering the malty goodness.

One of the things I love about this beer is how drinkable it is. The body is medium, with just enough heft to make it feel like a seasonal beer, but it’s still light and crisp enough that you could easily enjoy a couple pints without feeling too weighed down.

Negatives?

If there’s a downside, it’s that Festbier doesn’t stray too far from the traditional Märzen formula. While that’s a big part of its charm, some drinkers might find it a little predictable. It’s very well-made, but it doesn’t offer any surprises—so if you’re looking for something with a modern twist or bold flavors, this might feel a bit tame.

Mouthfeel and Finish

The mouthfeel is spot-on for the style—smooth and slightly creamy, with a lively carbonation that keeps it refreshing. It finishes clean with a soft malty sweetness and a tiny hint of bitterness from the hops, leaving you ready for the next sip. It’s the kind of beer that goes down easy, and it pairs perfectly with the cooler weather and Oktoberfest fare.

Positives

• Rich Malty Flavor: The caramel and toasted malt flavors really shine in this beer, offering the classic Oktoberfest experience in a well-balanced package.
• Super Drinkable: Even with its rich malt character, Festbier is light enough to enjoy more than one. It’s refreshing and smooth, making it perfect for fall gatherings or just a night in.
• True to Style: If you’re a fan of traditional Märzens, this one won’t disappoint. It hits all the right notes for the style, making it a great choice for Oktoberfest season.

Negatives

• Not Very Adventurous: While it’s a solid beer, it doesn’t push any boundaries. It’s classic to a fault—so if you’re looking for something bold or innovative, this might not be the beer that excites you.
• Might Be Too Sweet for Some: The malt-forward profile might lean a little too sweet for drinkers who prefer a hoppier or more balanced brew.

Final Thoughts

KC Bier Co Festbier is a fantastic option for those who love a well-crafted, traditional Märzen. It’s smooth, malty, and just the right amount of crisp, making it a perfect beer to celebrate the fall season. While it doesn’t break any new ground, it’s a solid representation of what an Oktoberfest beer should be—drinkable, flavorful, and true to its German roots.

If you’re in the mood for something classic that pairs perfectly with pretzels, bratwurst, or a fall night by the fire, Festbier is an easy pick. Sometimes, sticking to tradition is exactly what you need, and KC Bier Co has done just that with this one.

If you’ve tried KC Bier Co’s Festbier, please let us know your thoughts about it in the comments below.