- Leinenkugel's
It's mid-August and you beer lovers know what that means: the return of the fall seasonals! I'm not quite sure why beer companies release their autumn offerings while most of the country is still in the dead heat of summer, but I'd like to think it's meant to be a reminder of the cooler, crisp weather to come (that we will actually be rid of this seemingly never ending heat).
On the subject of fall seasonal brews, Leinenkugel Brewing Company is yet again releasing their Oktoberfest, a traditional German Marzen-style beer, in late August in bottled and draft form.
"First introduced in 2001 to honor company namesake, Jacob Leinenkugel, who came from Germany and started Leinenkugel’s in 1867, Leinenkugel’s Oktoberfest is brewed with Munich, Caramel and a blend of 2-row Pale malts. These barley malts give Leinie’s Oktoberfest a rich, hearty character and deep amber color, while four hop varieties provide an aromatic and smooth, well-balanced lager," states their website.
A refreshing beer on its own, Leinenkugel's Oktoberfest pairs nicely with traditional German fare, like bratwurst and sauerkraut, but also complements hearty soups and spiced dishes so often associated with the autumn season.
This article appears in Aug 11-17, 2011.