Good People Drink Good Beer

America’s oldest brewery is now trying their hand on a classic brew style for the first time: Oktoberfest! It seems fitting with all the german heritage around the state of PA. This article really doesn’t give much info on the brew itself, but I had the chance to try it at its first and official debut September 16th, 2011 at the PA Oktoberfest in Wilkes-Barre, PA. (This article is a little off; it debuted already in my area, ceremonial keg tapping and all!, and will debut in Bethlehem this weekend.)

Dick Yuengling himself was on hand to tap the ceremonial first keg, and I already had a stein of it in my hand! Word is this brew will only be offered in kegs AKA on draught, but I don’t have any real confirmation of this. I’ve heard a few mixed reviews about their Oktoberfest, but I personally was a big fan of it!! It has a great dark amber color that’s clear, not cloudy. It has a slight caramel tone to its smell, and it has a medium body that’s crisp. Its flavor is slightly sweet with some caramel and malt characteristics, and there isn’t very much hop flavor — something many beer drinkers feel that it’s missing. It’s smooth and easy to drink with a clean aftertaste. Many people have said it seems they were trying for bigger and richer flavor with this brew, which I believe is true, but they missed the mark a little bit. I was still a big fan of its crisp flavor and can’t wait to see it on tap at my local bar, but try it for yourself if you have the chance!