A Guide to the Best Bavarian Beers
Germany's relationship with beer is one of longevity, loyalty and love. There are more than 1,000 breweries in the country and these are responsible for around a quarter of Europe's total beer production.
Among the vast array of both steadfastly traditional and innovative modern brews, the beers from Bundesland in southeastern Bavaria are some of the most widely enjoyed throughout Germany and the rest of the world.
Marzen
One of the oldest Bavarian specialties, Marzen’s origins lie back in the 17th century before fridges (as we know them) were available to keep it cold. As such, the brewing of this strong pale lager traditionally finished in March each year when it was whisked off to icy caves to be stored throughout the summer.
Marzen has become almost synonymous with the famous Oktoberfest (which itself dates back to the 19th century) when the year's supply would have been in full flow.
Today, Marzen is enjoyed across Germany throughout the year and travelers staying in one of the youth hostels in munich which have a bar are encouraged to sample some of this strong, distinctively malty brew.
Hefeweizen
Weizen is German for wheat, which is the main ingredient in this unfiltered triumph of Bavarian brewing. Similar to the white beers of Belgium, the German variety of Hefeweizen is also a pale ale.
This beer's sweet and fruity flavor sets it in stark contrast to the more distinctive taste of brews like Marzen and may well appeal to travelers staying in Munich hostels even if they do not ordinarily drink beer.
Munchner Helles
The golden lager-style of the Munchner Helles beers also have a history that stretches back more than 100 years. They first made their appearance in Munich on a large scale towards the end of the 1890s, in a bid to prevent locals switching to pilsner from other parts of the country.
The distinctive malt taste is indicative of the high level of carbonates in the Munich water, although they can also often have a sweeter flavor than the traditional golden pilsners, which generally more hoppy and bitter.
About the Author: Before settling down and becoming a copywriter for HostelBookers. Paul Scottyn did a backpacking tour of Germany, he checked out a variety of the country's budget and group accommodation , including a number of most Munich hostels.
More articles by pscottyn
Print Article | Download PDF | 16 views | Sep 16 2008
|
|
