Santa Fe Brewing Co. (Santa Fe, New Mexico)
Here we have yet another American tribute to a German beer, the mighty Oktoberfest Lager! I always get excited every August as I see these beers appear on the shelves. I’m not a huge lager fan but Oktoberfest style lagers really hit the spot. This one is no exception.
Brewed with 100% natural spring water, this Oktoberfest pours a beautiful and clear medium amber color with a rocky head that is creamy and aromatic. A semi-sweet crispness accompanied by smooth and silky mouth feel make this beer easily chuggable. Subtle hop spice come from Hersbrucker and Tettnanger hops backed by Pilsen and Munich malts which give it a healthy backbone.
At 6% ABV. this one could catch up to you in no time after imbibing one too many large steins worth. Santa Fe Brewing’s version is just as good as any true German Oktoberfest that I’ve had the pleasure of drinking and I would gladly pick it up again, with or without my Lederhosen on. The only thing that would make this better would be some German Sausage, a warm Bavarian Pretzel and spicy mustard on the side.
Santa Fe Brewing Co. boasts many awards in a variety of categories. They operate using eco-friendly alternatives such as solar panels and monetary credits to locals upon return of their plastic six pack holders and 12 pack cases. The brewery also has an awesome program called “Small Batch Saturdays”, where they encourage local home brewers to come down and brew their recipes on the big brewing rig. They then tap the beers for all to come down and enjoy. What an awesome way to give home brewers some recognition.
I highly suggest you pick Santa Fe’s Oktoberfest Lager up before it’s gone for the season. You won’t be disappointed.
AWARDS:
2012 Best of the Rockies/Southwest Region, Vienna/Marzen Lager Category: US Beer Tasting Championship
2010 Silver Medal: Lager Category, Reno International Canned Beer Festival
2008 Bronze Medal, NM State Fair
Santa Fe Brewing Co.
35 Fire Place, Santa Fe, NM 87508
505.424.3333
info@santafebrewing.com
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