Märzen vs Festbier: which to choose for your Oktoberfest?
If you’ve heard about Märzen and Festbier and aren’t sure about the difference, you’re in the right place. Both are the official beers of Oktoberfest, but they have very different characteristics. Find out which one suits you — and where to buy them online at Maltese with shipping throughout Italy.
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What is Märzen?
Märzen is the historic Oktoberfest style: a Bavarian amber lager, malty and full-bodied, with notes of caramel, honey, and toffee. Originally brewed in March (hence the name) and stored until autumn, it ranges in color from amber to copper and has a low bitterness that lets the malt shine. Typical ABV: 4.8–6%.
A great Italian example? La Märzen Va Di Moda from Birrificio WAR — created for Oktoberfest 2022, with a full body and notes of honey and caramel.
What is Festbier?
Festbier is the more recent style, introduced in the 1950s–70s by major Bavarian breweries to meet the growing demand for lighter, more drinkable beers. It’s lighter in color than Märzen (golden-straw), with a lighter body, less malt sweetness, and greater drinkability. Similar ABV (4.8–6%) but a fresher, less structured sip.
Märzen vs Festbier: main differences
| Märzen | Festbier | |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Amber / copper | Golden / straw |
| Body | Medium-full | Light-medium |
| Aroma | Caramel, honey, toffee | Light malt, floral |
| Bitterness | Low | Low-moderate |
| Drinkability | Good but structured | Very high, easy drinking |
| Style | Traditional / historic | Modern / contemporary |
Which to choose?
- Choose Märzen if you love malty, full-bodied beers with character: notes of caramel and honey, amber color, satisfying sip. Perfect with roasts, pork knuckle, and aged cheeses.
- Choose Festbier if you prefer something lighter and more drinkable: fresher, easier to drink in sessions, ideal with lighter dishes or for a long evening.
How to serve them best
- Temperature: 8–10 °C for both
- Glassware: traditional mug or pint — discover tasting glasses on Maltese
- Märzen pairings: roasts, pork knuckle, sausages, aged cheeses, artisan snacks and cured meats
- Festbier pairings: roast chicken, salads, fresh cheeses, light dishes
Buy Märzen and craft lagers on Maltese
At Maltese you’ll find a selection of Italian and international craft lagers, with shipping throughout Italy. Whether you prefer the malty structure of Märzen or the lightness of Festbier, there’s the right beer for you.
