Zum Wohl: Best 2022 Oktoberfest beers to raise a glass to your health

While the Munich celebration has already tapped its first keg, some people are unable to make the pilgrimage to Germany for the annual Oktoberfest celebration. Still, it does not mean that the German style beers are not flowing beyond deutschland. Some of the best 2022 Oktoberfest beers can be found close to home.

Whether it is that cousin from Boston who says that it is OK to beer fest or a blend of Bavarian tradition with other flavor notes, the best 2022 Oktoberfest beers come in a myriad of styles. Even though the Marzen style beer ties them all together, each offering has unique characteristics. From herbal hoppy notes to that golden amber color, beer drinkers are thirsty to try them all.

Here are the Best 2022 Oktoberfest beers to open this season

Goose Island Beer Co. OktoberFest

While many people are counting down the days to the 30th anniversary of the Goose Island Bourbon County Stout offerings, the OktoberFest beer is ready to be poured now. With notes of rye bread, the hearty flavors are balanced with crisp noble hops. Even with a hint of bitterness, it is a beer that will keep the celebration going all night long.

Bell’s Oktoberfest

The Michigan brewery has showcased its prowess once again. While this beer might have a little more bite than other Marzen style offerings, it is perfection on that crisp fall afternoon. Snuggle under a blanket, enjoy the fall colors and let the flavor and aroma take over. Life is too short to miss another sip.

Breckenridge Brewery

More of a German Amber Lager, the Breckenridge Brewery Oktoberfest Marzen Lager is smooth and an easy beer to enjoy. With bread aromas front and center, it entices that first sip and lingers with a little malty sweet taste. Luckily, the clean finish draws you back for another taste.

Firestone Walker Oaktoberfest

Taking a different approach to an Oktoberfest offering, the Firestone Walker Oaktoberfest is enjoyed by both beer and wine enthusiasts, alike. By lagering the beer in French oak barrels, that hint of oak character blended with a super smooth mouthfeel makes this beer a highlight of the season.

Paulaner Oktoberfest Bier

For anyone who craves that authentic German Oktoberfest beer, the Paulaner brings that flavor without jumping on a plane to Germany. The robust golden color captivates the eye, and the glass is empty almost too quickly. It might be the toffee notes, or it just might be the need to raise a rousting Prost to the annual celebration.

Brooklyn Oktoberfest

Whether it is enjoying the festival at the brewery itself or opening a bottle at home, Brooklyn Brewery Oktoberfest always delivers a great sip. It is approachable, drinkable and quite delicious.

Shiner Oktoberfest

While the Texas brewery is a legend in the Lone Star State, its take the German marzen would make Munich proud. Using Hallertau Tradition hops, the flavor is authentic and quite agreeable on a less chilly fall day.

Samuel Adams Oktoberfest

Sure, that infamous cousin might have a few questionable words of wisdom, but he does have a great beer waiting to be enjoyed. Slightly more sweet than other offerings, it pairs well with that brat with spicy mustard. Grab a stein and say bottoms up.

Devils Backbone Brewing Co.

Considered more of a modern take on the traditional style, O’Fest Oktoberfest Lage is a medium bodied beer. While it still has a nod to the traditional malt and hoppy qualities, it is exceptional smooth and easy to drink.

Golden Road Brewing

A classic Marzen, the Golden Road Brewing Oktoberfest brings all the caramel flavors front and center. Using the traditional German Vienna and Munich malts, that Bavarian connection is clear. From the vibrant amber color to the rich flavor, this seasonal beer shines amongst all the offerings.

Karbach Brewing Co.

Grab a brat or a big pretzel because the Karbach Brewing Co Karbachtoberfest pairs perfectly with those Oktoberfest foods. The Bavarian-style Marzen is smooth, easy drinking and a delight to enjoy for the celebration. Since this brewery believes its beer is Craft for Fun, it is best to have a 6-pack on hand to enjoy all the festivities.

Widmer Brothers

Considered the brewery that first introduced seasonal beers to America, the Widmer Brother Okto captures that classic style perfectly. With a touch of bitter and a dash of sweet, the beer is best enjoyed on a fall afternoon where the only agenda is enjoying time with friends.

Leinenkugel’s

Borrowing from its German heritage, this traditional Marzen beer has all the flavors that beer drinkers expect. While it might be brewed in the North Woods, the toasted malty, spicy hops and hint of sweetness transport drinkers to a German beer haul.

What are your picks for the best 2022 Oktoberfest beers? Ready to one, two, three drink?