I recently had the good fortune of meeting one of my best friends brother. My neighbor “Dr. Rob” was visited by his little brother “Eric” for the holidays and they decided to join me on the Porch one evening for a few beers. Here’s the setting; 35 degrees outside, two heaters, a beer tap and sibling rivalry at it’s best. One of the most entertaining evenings I’ve ever had. Well, after “Dr. Rob” got sleepy (can’t hang with the big dogs?) and went to bed, “Eric” and I stayed up till the wee hours of the morning and it just so happens that we have a common love for the art of brewing beer. The only difference is, he actually brews it. I only drink it.
He brought with him some of his latest home brew, a six pack of Oktoberfest. ”Dr. Rob” had to leave it sit for about a week or two
before he could refrigerate it and last night he brought it over for us to try. It had a very nice classic cloudy, orange-copper color with a good light caramel colored head. The hops were faint, like they should be with this type of beer but malts were thin. At one point I could swear I tasted a hint of orange peel. It was fairly light for a Marzen/Oktoberfest but it had a crisp clean finish that left me wanting another drink. Two things that really stood out for me was the color and the lacing. The head dissapated fairly quickly, but it did leave a covering on top until the end. True to it’s style was the look, mouthfeel and the taste. If it was available in stores, I’d buy this one often.
This is a very good brew, one of the better home brews I’ve had. Most are flat and tasteless, but not this one. “Eric” seems to have either captured the true art of brewing or just got lucky with this batch. Either way, I’d like to thank him for his contribution to this site and for adding to the size of my beer belly. Your Brews are welcome on the Porch anytime. I’d also like to thank both brothers for the hours of entertainment you gave me listening to you two fight out all your political differences.
In summary, it had an excellent color, good head and almost zero aroma. If I compare it to big time commercial Oktoberfest brews, I would rank it 3 out of 5, but comparing it to other home brews, it is a definite 5 out of 5. This would be a good one to drink all night long around the campfire and would go well with a grilled bratwurst or a soft pretzel dipped in hot mustard.
P-O-R-C-H Rating: C-
Posted by Mr. Porch