Paulaner - Oktoberfest Wiesn

Wow, I'm beat.  This morning I ran a 5k race for the first time ever and holy crap was it harder than I expected.  I started out running with one of my buddies, trying to keep pace.  After about a mile I threw in the white towel and said "Yup, can't go as fast as you".  I finished, while only taking a brief break for about 10 seconds to ensure two things: One, not vomit everywhere (note to self - don't eat Cheerios before a 5k), and Two, ensure that I could continue to breathe.  I finished my first 5k in about 28 minutes which I thought was pretty darn good.  Of course, after any significant personal accomplishment one achieves, I celebrated with beer!!!

The men on the front of this can are a
 future representation of me in 20 years.
 Clothing included.

Paulaner releases an Oktoberfest-themed mug + beer package this year.  They provided us with a 1 liter Oktoberfest-style mug and a 1 liter can of Oktoberfest Wiesn.  Paulaner's Oktoberfest Wiesn, while not an original Oktoberfest Marzen, has been produced for a number of years.  In fact, it's been around since the start of the Oktoberfest festival in 1810!  The whole reason us Americans are able to enjoy this specialty beer is because Paulaner was kind enough to release it to the States for its 200th anniversary.

This mug is absolutely huge.  When compared next to a 12 can the Paulaner brew looks like an offensive lineman next to a high school freshman high jumper.  While I don't wish all beers came in this size of a can, there are certainly many delicious brews I can think of that I would love to have the opportunity to buy a six pack of liter cans.

Monks Blood is a 12 ounce can.  Need I say more?

The color is brilliantly clear and colored of straw.  Aromas are pleasantly floral with a bit of a malty backbone.  Very nice.  The taste is amazingly clean with hints of hop bitterness and malty sweetness throughout.  Every flavor is balanced and easy to pick out.  A nice body with mild carbonation brings this simple, yet flavorful beauty home.  Absolutely delicious.  I'd drink this every day.

Its... glorious!!!

Overall - I think its clear that I am infatuated with this beer.  I wish I had this on tap all the time.  Its hoppy, but not overly hoppy.  Its malty, but not extremely sweet.  The entire product is clean and extremely enjoyable. If you are not an owner of a 1 liter Oktoberfest-style mug then this is where you should get it.  The mug is awesome, but the beer is even better.  Grab this limited release package while you still can!


Update! - Apparently my wife thinks I look like this picture...

Just because I have a big nose doesn't mean you need to hate! :-D