If you’re like us, Oktoberfest means two things: a September trip to your nearest festival and the chance to try out some limited edition harvest ales and lagers. With a large selection to choose from, we’re helping with our favorites of the holiday season. Out of our large and constantly updated beer selection, here are our Oktoberfest beer recommendations from the experts at Hickey’s Wine and Spirits.

Hickey’s Recommendations for Oktoberfest Beers

Ayinger Oktober Fest-Märzen

As “Märzen” or “March” beer, these amber beers were developed to celebrate the original Oktoberfest. Ayinger is known for these types of beers, and their Oktober Fest-Märzen doesn’t disappoint with a flavor that’s slightly sweet with toasty malt balanced with floral, but only somewhat bitter hops. Long maturation times lead to a soft dryness.

Shipyard Pumpkinhead

A crisp, refreshing wheat ale with a light pumpkin flavor and a blend of spices, including cinnamon and nutmeg. This orange-amber ale has a big head on pour, with a semisweet pale malt that has its bitterness balanced with the spices. With its pumpkin spice aroma and pumpkin taste, it’s a great beer for your first try of pumpkin ales.

Samual Adams Jack-O

A great pumpkin ale brewed right here in Massachusetts, there’s often demand all year round for this drink. It also includes actual pumpkin and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, but is slightly sweeter in terms of both aroma and taste. This beer is a good recommendation for those who want to get into the holiday spirit but may not always drink beer.

Weihenstephaner Festbier

This beer is especially brewed for the “Festbier” season, which makes it lighter than a Märzen beer. Another traditional Bavarian lager, this one pours a deep gold color with a good head of foam, featuring an aroma of lemon and fresh-baked bread, with a similar taste and a crisp, carbonated mouthfeel.

These are only a taste of the over 500 craft beers we have at Hickey’s Wine and Spirits, both the classics, the local favorites (including Worcester County, Massachusetts, and New England breweries), and seasonal beers for Oktoberfest, Christmas, summer, and more! Come on in to talk with our experts to find the best beers for your next gathering, with 10% mixed six-packs and cases.