Samuel Adams Octoberfest 2024 Review

Rating: 4.3/5

When fall rolls around, you know it’s time for the return of Samuel Adams Octoberfest, and the 2024 release doesn’t disappoint. It’s a reliable brew that captures the essence of the season, offering a malty, caramel-forward experience that’s perfect for crisp autumn evenings. Sam Adams has been doing Octoberfest right for years, and while this one sticks pretty close to the formula, it’s still a great choice if you’re in the mood for a classic Märzen style beer. That said, there are a couple of things that might not appeal to everyone, but overall, it’s a solid go-to for fall beer lovers.

First Impressions

The pour is just about everything you want from an Oktoberfest-style beer. It’s a deep amber, almost copper color, with a nice frothy off-white head that sticks around for a bit. The clarity is fantastic, and you can practically see the malty goodness waiting for you. Right off the bat, it looks like a beer that screams “fall.”

Aroma

The nose is exactly what you’d expect from a good Octoberfest. There’s a wave of rich, toasted malt and caramel, with a hint of biscuit-like sweetness. You also pick up a slight nuttiness and maybe a touch of earthy hops in the background, but nothing too overpowering. The aroma really sets the stage for what’s to come, making you want to dive right in.

Taste

The first sip delivers that classic malty richness. You immediately get those caramel and toffee notes, followed by a toasted bread flavor that’s smooth and satisfying. It’s a malt-forward beer, but not overly sweet, which keeps it from feeling heavy. There’s a nice balance of light hop bitterness that comes in at the finish to keep things from being too one-dimensional.

As for the body, it’s medium and crisp, making it very drinkable for a beer with this much flavor. You could easily have a couple of these without feeling weighed down, which makes it a great choice for Oktoberfest parties or just hanging out on a cool evening.

Negatives?
If there’s any downside, it’s that Samuel Adams Octoberfest doesn’t stray far from the classic Märzen template. For some, that’s a good thing—it’s consistent and you know what you’re getting. But if you’re looking for a more complex, adventurous take on the style, you might find it a bit safe. Also, while the malt sweetness is well done, it might lean a little too much toward the caramel for those who prefer a dryer finish.

Mouthfeel and Finish

The mouthfeel is smooth with just enough carbonation to keep it lively. It’s got that classic clean finish you want from an Oktoberfest beer—malty with a touch of bitterness. There’s no lingering sweetness, which is great because it leaves you ready for another sip. It’s not too heavy or syrupy, so even though it’s rich in flavor, it’s still refreshing.

Positives

• Great Malty Flavor: This is where the beer really shines. The caramel and toasted malt flavors are classic and exactly what you expect from an Oktoberfest beer.
• Perfect for Fall: It’s smooth, rich, and has a nice medium body that makes it ideal for fall weather, whether you’re at a party or just relaxing.
• Very Drinkable: For a beer with this much malt character, it’s surprisingly easy to drink. It’s not heavy, which makes it great for enjoying a few over the course of an evening.

Negatives

• Lacks Complexity: If you’re a beer nerd looking for something that pushes the boundaries of the Märzen style, this might not be it. It’s delicious but doesn’t offer anything groundbreaking.
• A Little Sweet for Some: The caramel notes, while tasty, might lean too sweet for those who prefer a drier beer with more hop presence.

Final Thoughts

Samuel Adams Octoberfest 2024 is another solid entry in their long line of reliable seasonal beers. It’s rich, malty, and perfect for the fall, hitting all the right notes you expect from a classic Oktoberfest-style brew. While it doesn’t break any new ground, it’s comforting in its consistency and reliability. If you’re in the mood for a smooth, easy-drinking Märzen that pairs perfectly with cool weather and good company, this beer is a no-brainer.

Whether you’re enjoying one at an Oktoberfest celebration or just relaxing at home, it’s the kind of beer that makes you feel like fall has truly arrived.

If you’ve tried the 2024 of Sam Adams Octoberfest, please let us know your thoughts in the comments below.