Samuel Adams Octoberfest
A: SA Octoberfest is a rich orange/maple color with a solid 2 finger creamy head that slowly falls to a frothy cap of foam over the top. Spots of lace all the way down the glass. S: Sweeter in aroma than most marzens, it showcases some light caramel and just a twinge of the earthy Munich malt so common to the style. There's also a hint of earthy/herbal hoppiness present. Definitely average for the style, but it gets a bit of a bump for being clean and well balanced. T&M: A light caramel flavor melds with a dry, slightly earthy/grainy presence mid-palate. There's a black tea-like component in the dryness, as well. A touch of lightly herbal hop flavor is noticed, but not that present. All flavors are somewhat subdued, but it's still flavorful enough. Definitely and clean, crisp, and well balanced marzen. Body is light-ish with a carbonation level that's appropriate--never too aggressive. D: Overall, definitely a quaffer. Not the most robust or bold marzen you'll find, but one that drinks well enough.