The American style of these classic German beer are distinguished by a comparatively greater degree of hop character. In general the style is characterized by a medium body and broad range of color. Oktoberfests can range from golden to reddish brown. Sweet maltiness should dominate over a clean, hop bitterness. The bitterness should not be aggressive or harsh. Malt character should be light-toasted rather than strongly caramel (though a low level of light caramel character is acceptable). Bread or biscuit like malt character is acceptable in aroma and flavor. Hop aroma and flavor should be notable but at low to medium levels. Fruity esters should not be perceived. Diacetyl and chill haze should not be perceived.
Origin: North American
Recommended Glassware: Pilsner Glass
Original Gravity (ºPlato): 1.050-1.060 (12.5-15 ºPlato)
Apparent Extract/Final Gravity (ºPlato): 1.012-1.020 (3-5 ºPlato)
Alcohol by Weight (Volume): 4-4.7% (5.3-5.9%)
Bitterness (IBU): 18-25
Color SRM (EBC): 4-15 (8-30 EBC)
Sub-style guidelines used with permission of the Brewers Association, www.beertown.org.