In the spirit of the season, my most recent quest for drink of the week started and ended at Rio Station, where setup for their Oktoberfest celebration had already begun. Just hours earlier, Rio Station had put famous German import, Spaten Oktoberfest, on tap for the occasion. “When in Rome…,” I thought and quickly ordered a pint to try. Featuring a light hop, citrus scent, Spaten Oktoberfest tasted like the best of malts. Lightly sweet accents are balanced with rich malt undertones and even nutty qualities. The hops bring a light aftertaste of lemon zest. Though Rio Station had an impressive line-up of Oktoberfest competitors to sample, the Spaten would no doubt be crowned this week’s winner.
Highly recommended by bartender Kylie, Leinenkugel’s Oktoberfest pours a light copper color and tastes very similar to a marzen beer. Expect a rich, toasty flavor profile accented by a blend of malt flavors. Stray from Oktoberfest blends but stick with a seasonal brown ale with Sierra Nevada Tumbler, also on tap at Rio Station. Tumbler features roasted malt with full, complex toasted aromas and nutty flavor with the slightest hint of smoke. “Perfect for a fall afternoon”, enjoy a glass of this or Rio Station’s other exceptional seasonal offerings at Happy Hour daily from 4-7 pm or Fridays from 4-9 pm.
By Megan Kummer