Samuel Adams Octoberfest
Reviewed from notes from Sept. 2008. Pours a clear reddish amber in color with a half inch of medium density whitish head. Not much retention or lacing here, not atypical I would say for the style and leaving a bit of surface foam. Smell is sweet and malty with lightly roasted caramel and a touch of hops. Taste is similar with malts and a bit of hops. Decent but not much depth or character. Slightly bitter on the finish typical of many Sam beers. Decent carbonation helps cloak the sugars on the finish, giving a good feel. Nonetheless a bit rich on the tongue limiting drinkability. More robust and full bodied than anything I've had from Sam in some time. Edit: 2010 brings a lighter bodied brew, decent feel remains but taste is middle of the road.