Van Henion Fest Bier

This week’s highlight is the Van Henion Fest Bier – A German-style lager. Enjoy its malt-forward, subtly bitter profile. It pours a brilliant golden orange color with a pillowy white head. Savor it straight out of the can or in your favorite Stein. Prost!

Oktoberfest began in 1810, celebrating the marriage between Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. Initially, a rich, strong beer called Dunkel was enjoyed, featuring chocolatey, bready, and smoky flavors. This beer style has evolved significantly since then.

The Dunkel, a pioneering lager from the 16th century, was amber due to its malt. By 1841, new kilning techniques allowed for toasted flavors without dark colors or smokiness. This led to the amber lager or Märzenbier, influenced by Anton Dreher’s Vienna lager and Gabriel Sedlmayr’s Oktoberfest adaptation, becoming a festival staple.

Märzen’s roots trace back to a 1553 Bavarian law mandating brewing by March’s end to avoid the summer heat, storing beer until autumn. Initially similar to Dunkels, Märzen evolved into a lighter beer. Today, only beers brewed within Munich and adhering to the Reinheitsgebot are allowed at Munich Oktoberfest, with six breweries qualifying. In the U.S., Oktoberfest beers are usually Märzens, while in Germany, the style has changed.

The Festbier, or Wiesn, is a strong German golden lager and the official beer of Germany’s Oktoberfest. Made with Pilsner malt, it offers a biscuity, toasty flavor with a light appearance. The Van Henion Fest Bier, known for its robust flavor, captures the essence of Oktoberfest, making it a favorite for those wanting to experience the festival’s spirit with every sip.