Munich's annual Oktoberfest (ironically starting in September) is a hedonist spectacle that sees one of Bavaria's most popular cities flooded with tourists, eager to sup local beer, and, as we all now know, become raucously drunk. Still considered a cultural staple, with approximately 8 million litres of beer served here every year (7.7 million in 2013), for some beer fans, the bacchanalian nature of the event is too much a blend of sensory overload and overcrowding to contemplate, but luckily there are other ways to experience German brewing at its best, and even some calmer highlights of the main event. Here are our suggestions.
Cologne's kölsch
A local beer of renown, kölsch is exclusively brewed in Cologne.
It's a pale ale with a distinct flavour, served in a traditional
tall, cylindrical glass, often in darling pubs and taverns that dot
Cologne's ancient stone streets. A guided kölsch tasting experience
is well worth it - consider it the sophisticate's answer to a pub
crawl. Expect hoppy flavours crafted with love, tradition and
exacting standards.
Sup pilsner in a beer garden
German pilsner originates in Bohemia, a German-speaking region,
once belonging to the Austrian Empire. Many of the locals will
order 'pils', so don't be surprised to see it listed as such on the
menu. Germany is home to beer gardens up and down the country, and
many of them date back decades, even centuries - if you're in
Berlin, be sure to stop off at the Prater Biergarten, which has
been open since 1837. Prater Pilsner is the local choice here, and
if you happen to be visiting at a less seasonable time of year, an
adjacent beer hall is offered in place of the chestnut tree-shaded
garden.
The Oktoberfest Museum
Literally 'Oktoberfestmuseum' in German, the four floors of this
Munich museum are dedicated to all things Oktoberfest, for an
academic view on the infamous spectacle. Explore a collection of
Oktoberfest items, from brewing vats to photos of celebrations
past, all housed in an elegant 14th century building.
Oktoberfest Mass
A somewhat overlooked part of Oktoberfest is the Mass, a religious
ceremony that has been part of the festivities since 1956. The Mass
gives thanks to all those who facilitate Oktoberfest, as well as
offering remembrance for those who have passed, and usually takes
place in the Hippodrom tent. For a relatively quieter side to the
festival (though it may still host up to 4,200 guests), check it
out.
Beck's Brewery tour
If you prefer lager to craft ale (and there are some out there who
do), what better way to celebrate your love than with a tour of the
Beck's Brewery? Running for two hours through the Bremen-based
brewery of this internationally famous beverage, the tour explores
the history of the beer, which has been produced for over 140
years. Although there are now Beck's factories across the world
(unsurprising, given that some 3,000 bottles are produced a
minute), returning to where it all started is a fascinating
experience, intertwining the history of the city with that of its
most famous produce. Each tour also includes a chance to sample the
beer afterwards, though if you somehow miss your chance, there are
plenty of pubs in Bremen and indeed across Germany where this
famous beer can be enjoyed.
Of course, if you do want to brave the crowds, Oktoberfest runs
annually, with schedules for specific events (such as the opening
parade) published well in advance.
