What is Märzen Beer? A Fall Flavor to Enjoy at Oktoberfest

What is Märzen beer?

Märzen beer is one of the traditional German beers, and its name comes from "März" which means "March". The background to the creation of this beer is a special brewing custom in medieval Germany.

Timing of brewing

In the old days in Germany, brewers would brew beer early in the spring because the heat of summer would affect the quality of the beer. In particular, beer was brewed from the end of March to April using malt that had been stored during the winter. For this reason, Märzen beer is known as a spring beer.

Preservation measures

After being brewed, Märzen beer had to be stored over the summer, which is why it was often chosen to be a malty beer with a higher alcohol content, so that the beer's quality could be preserved and enjoyed during autumn harvest festivals and festivals.

The Oktoberfest connection

Märzen especially plays an important role in events such as Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival, which takes place annually in Munich, usually between September and October. At the festival, special Märzen beers brewed by local breweries are offered, allowing visitors to enjoy a wide variety of beers. Oktoberfest Märzen is of particularly high quality and aromatic, making it a must-try for any beer lover.

How Märzen beer is made

Märzen beer is brewed using a unique method:

1. Brewing season
   Märzen beer is typically brewed in the spring, as a tradition to prevent the beer from spoiling in the hot summer temperatures.
   
   
2. Malt used
   Pilsner malt and caramel malt are primarily used to create the rich malty sweetness and deep color.
   
   
3. Fermentation temperature
   Although Märzen beer uses lager yeast, the fermentation temperature is set higher than that of regular lager beers to bring out the unique rich and flavorful taste. This brewing method is one of the attractions of Märzen beer.
   
   
4. Aging period
   While regular beer is aged for a few weeks, Märzen beer is aged for several months before being served.

The effects of aging

As Märzen beer ages, the following changes occur:

1. Deepening of flavor
   The sweetness and aroma of the malt are highlighted, allowing you to enjoy a more complex flavor.
   
   
2. Smooth mouthfeel
   As it ages, it becomes smoother and easier to drink.
   
   
3. Changes in scent
   The fresh hop aroma is reduced and the malty aroma is accentuated.
   
   
4. Color change
   Aging deepens the color to a deep amber or copper color.
   
   
5. How carbonation feels
   The carbonation is toned down, resulting in a creamier mouthfeel.
   
   
6. Reduction in hop flavor
   The malt flavour becomes more dominant and the overall balance changes.

However, there is a limit to how long it can be aged: if it is aged for too long, the flavor will deteriorate and it may be affected by oxidation. Märzen beer is usually recommended to be consumed within 6 months to a year after brewing, but high-quality beers can be aged for a longer period to enjoy their unique flavor.

Canned Märzen that can be enjoyed all year round, not just in autumn

Once brewed, Märzen beer is allowed to age and then canned. This allows it to be kept particularly long and maintains its quality when delivered to consumers. Once canned, Märzen is often sold all year round so consumers can enjoy it at any time. There are many different brands that produce and sell Märzen all year round, making it easy to find.

Austria's national beer, Gösser, is also a Märzen beer.

summary

Märzen beer has its own unique appeal due to its brewing method and aging process, and although it is especially popular at Oktoberfest, it can be enjoyed all year round. Please try its rich flavor and deep taste. It is the perfect beer for toasting at autumn festivals or special occasions.