When you think of an Oktoberfest beer, you might picture a Märzen — and you’d be partially right. But, did you know the Germans morphed this centuries-old style into something completely new? 

The brews you’ll see overflowing in Bavarian beer steins aren’t amber and heavily malted like those in the U.S. They’re golden and invigorating — strong, yet sippable, and oh-so-refreshing on a late summer afternoon.

Freiheit is a delicious example of this beautifully evolved style. It comes to you from Wayfinder, the Lager masters that PortlandLive praises as “one of Portland’s most heralded breweries”. 

It’s called a Wiesn (pronounced VEE-sin). That’s German for “meadow,” and every light, slightly honeyed sip makes me want to romp through a grassy field, singing “The hills are aliiiive ...”

Like me, Portland’s thirsty craft nerds are singing Freiheit’s praises! They can hardly contain their excitement about this annual brew, saying:

• “Crazy light. Super crushable.” @Nathan M.
• “Super fresh and smooth Oktoberfest beer. Light and drinkable, slightly fruity” @Sharon S.
• “Delicious. Malty, bready, and clean. A great beer to welcome the fall.” @Alan

Sure, you may not be able to hop a jet to Germany, but you can still let Tavour bring Oktoberfest to you! So, grill up some bratwurst and break out the sauerkraut — it’s the thirstiest time of the year!

*Freiheit won a Silver Medal at the 2018 GABF!