Rating 88
Style Lager, Märzen
Produced In Lexington, Virginia
United States
ABV 5.9%
Availability Fall
Reviewed By
Review Updated 2018-10-04

Perfect For

Date Night, Holiday Meals, Sipping Without Food

Devils Backbone Brewing O'Fest Oktoberfest Lager Review

O'Fest calls upon the sweeter side of Oktoberfest. Pouring a crystal-clear, copper color with a slight khaki head, aromas of sweet bread, soft pretzel crust and caramel malts come to the forefront, with hints of herbal hop notes — Northern Brewer, Hallertua Mittlefrau, and Saaz are used — close behind.

Crisp carbonation allows the malt-forward sweetness to shine, cascading over the palate in stages: first, a bite of carbonation at the tip of the tongue; next, caramel sweetness in a creamy malt center; then, a hint of bitterness at the edges of the palate. O'fest finishes slow with a lingering syrupy note that, depending on the drinker, is either a pleasant remnant of the experience you've just had; or, a sign to move on to the next conquest.

As of 2024, VinePair no longer participates in any affiliate programs. All links included in our content are as a convenience to our readers, not for earning commission — we receive no monetary value from them. Learn more about our tastings & review department here!

Related Reads

Featured Lager Articles

How ‘Ladies Who Lager’ Is Changing Perceptions of Women as Brewers in India

How ‘Ladies Who Lager’ Is Changing Perceptions of Women as Brewers in India:
Ladies Who Lager isn’t just any female brewing collective. The group comprises 6 female brewers making their mark in the Indian beer industry

Remembering ‘America’s Beer,’ Old Milwaukee

Remembering ‘America’s Beer,’ Old Milwaukee:
While the history of Old Milwaukee may not be as documented as Budweiser or Miller Lite, it has a long-held place in American history.

In Vermont, Après-Ski Is All About Beer

In Vermont, Après-Ski Is All About Beer:
Ski towns in America tend to have good beer, but Vermont might be the state to pair powder and brews best.

No Longer Just For Macro Lagers, Craft Beer Is Finally Embracing Rice

No Longer Just For Macro Lagers, Craft Beer Is Finally Embracing Rice:
Known for its role in macro lagers, craft breweries have largely ignored rice as an ingredient, until now.

88
POINTS
Devils Backbone Brewing O'Fest Oktoberfest Lager
O'Fest calls upon the sweeter side of Oktoberfest. Pouring a crystal-clear, copper color with a slight khaki head, aromas of sweet bread, soft pretzel crust and caramel malts come to the forefront, with hints of herbal hop notes — Northern Brewer, Hallertua Mittlefrau, and Saaz are used — close behind. Crisp carbonation allows the malt-forward sweetness to shine, cascading over the palate in stages: first, a bite of carbonation at the tip of the tongue; next, caramel sweetness in a creamy malt center; then, a hint of bitterness at the edges of the palate. O'fest finishes slow with a lingering syrupy note that, depending on the drinker, is either a pleasant remnant of the experience you've just had; or, a sign to move on to the next conquest.

Reviewed On: 09-24-2018
88
POINTS
Devils Backbone Brewing O'Fest Oktoberfest Lager
O'Fest calls upon the sweeter side of Oktoberfest. Pouring a crystal-clear, copper color with a slight khaki head, aromas of sweet bread, soft pretzel crust and caramel malts come to the forefront, with hints of herbal hop notes — Northern Brewer, Hallertua Mittlefrau, and Saaz are used — close behind. Crisp carbonation allows the malt-forward sweetness to shine, cascading over the palate in stages: first, a bite of carbonation at the tip of the tongue; next, caramel sweetness in a creamy malt center; then, a hint of bitterness at the edges of the palate. O'fest finishes slow with a lingering syrupy note that, depending on the drinker, is either a pleasant remnant of the experience you've just had; or, a sign to move on to the next conquest.

Reviewed On: 09-24-2018