Why We Raise a Stein: The Flavor, History & Traditions Behind Märzen-Style Oktoberfest Beer

Every fall, the leaves turn, the air chills, and something rich, malty, and time-honored flows back into our mugs: the Märzen-style Oktoberfest beer. At Reformation, our Revival Oktoberfest 2025 is brewed with Bavarian yeast and Coffee Malt — a throwback to centuries-old celebration with a Georgia twist. But what exactly makes an Oktoberfest beer? Why the steins? And what’s the deal with Coffee Malt?

Let’s tap into the answers.

What’s the difference between Märzen and Festbier?

While both are classic German fall beers, they’ve evolved:

Märzen:

  • -Originated in Bavaria, brewed in March (“März”) and stored cool until fall.
  • -Deep amber, medium-bodied, bready and toasty flavor.
  • -Revival Oktoberfest is this style — rooted in tradition.

Festbier:

  • -Modern style served at Oktoberfest in Munich.
  • -Lighter in color, body, and alcohol.
  • -More crisp and drinkable in large quantities.

TL;DR: Märzen is old-school and richer; Festbier is lighter and newer.

Why is it called “Oktoberfest” if we drink it in September?

Because the original Oktoberfest started in September!
The first Oktoberfest was a royal wedding celebration in 1810. It lasted 16 days and ended in early October, giving the festival its name. Ever since, celebrations — and beers — start mid-September and end the first weekend of October.

So yes, it’s perfectly on time to crack one open in August.

What does Coffee Malt add to the beer?

Don’t let the name fool you — Coffee Malt doesn’t add actual coffee.

It brings:

  • -Aromas of roasted nuts, toast, and subtle chocolate.
  • -Color: A beautiful amber-bronze hue.
  • -Balance: Adds richness without the bitterness of roasted barley.

In Revival Oktoberfest, it complements the smooth malt profile and makes this Märzen just a little deeper and toastier.

Why do people drink Oktoberfest beers from steins?

Because it’s all about the experience:

  • -Ceremony: Steins are part of German beer tradition — big, bold, and festive.
  • -Cheers factor: They clink like nothing else. (“Prost!” never sounded better.)
  • -Insulation: Thick steins help keep beer cool.
  • -Volume: You’re meant to sip and celebrate — not shoot and scoot.

Want to lean into the ritual? Steins will be available at the end of September!

What food pairs best with Märzen-style Oktoberfest beer?

Oktoberfest beers love savory, hearty food:

  • -Soft pretzels & mustard
  • -Brats or sausages
  • -Roast chicken or pork
  • -Cheddar, gouda, or gruyere cheeses
  • -Caramel apple desserts

The beer’s malt-forward body holds up to rich, salty, and slightly sweet flavors.

Is Revival Oktoberfest available everywhere?

Yep. From August through October, you can find Revival Oktoberfest 2025 wherever Reformation beer is sold. Whether you’re firing up the grill, tailgating, or just looking for that first taste of fall — it’s here.

Fall’s first sip has arrived. Grab your stein, find a friend, and raise a glass of Revival Oktoberfest 2025. Available now, only for a limited time — don’t wait until it’s just a ghost of autumn past.

🍻 Prost.

Upcoming Events
Thu
02

College Night at Reformation!

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

It's College Night at Reformation! Study up and sip into $15 pitchers (ask your beertender for options) Thursdays in Canton and Woodstock.

Fri
03

Friday Flights

8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Take a flight to Reformation, and see where you end up! Stop by for 4oz pours of new or tried & tested favorites with friends. Just $8 in Canton & […]

Fri
03

Oktoberfest Stein Special

12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Buy the beer. Keep the glass. Revival Oktoberfest is back for the season, and while supplies last, you can get a 20oz collectible stein filled to the brim with Reformation […]

Thu
02

Trivia Night at Reformation Canton

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

It’s trivia night! Gather your dream team and come compete for first, second, and third-place prizes awarded each week with our friends from Light’s Up! Entertainment (now inside Reformation Brewery).

Thu
02

College Night at Reformation!

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM

It's College Night at Reformation! Study up and sip into $15 pitchers (ask your beertender for options) Thursdays in Canton and Woodstock.

Fri
03

Friday Flights

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Take a flight to Reformation, and see where you end up! Stop by for 4oz pours of new or tried & tested favorites with friends. Just $8 in Canton & […]

Thu
02

Music Bingo

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Come hang with us for Music Bingo! Brought to you by Lights Up Entertainment!

Fri
03

Friday Flights

12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Take a flight to Reformation, and see where you end up! Stop by for 4oz pours of new or tried & tested favorites with friends. Just $8 in Canton & […]

Fri
03

Oktoberfest Stein Special

12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Buy the beer. Keep the glass. Revival Oktoberfest is back for the season, and while supplies last, you can get a 20oz collectible stein filled to the brim with Reformation […]

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