A pint of beer, a toast to Germany

By MOOK Scenic Travel Life Net, compiled and reported by Chen Guanxin. Source: Mook Editorial Department

 

In 1516, Duke Wilhelm IV of Bavaria issued one of the most important decrees in German history—the Reinheitsgebot, which stipulated that beer could only be brewed using malt, hops, and pure water. Later, when yeast was discovered, it was added as the fourth ingredient. To this day, German beer continues to follow this ancient law, ensuring brewing quality and solidifying its centuries-old reputation for excellence. In Germany, you might even find beer cheaper than mineral water. Given that most German food tends to be salty, pairing it with a chilled, refreshing beer is an absolute delight.

Germany boasts around 5,000 different kinds of beer, with slight variations in drinking habits and tastes across regions. In northern Germany, beers are mostly slightly bitter Pilseners; in the south, crisp and smooth Wheat Beers (Weizen) dominate. Bamberg’s famous Rauchbier (smoked beer) has a distinctive smoky flavor and is a type of dark beer. Bavaria’s specialty, Schwarzbier (black beer), offers the sweet aroma of roasted malt. In Cologne, the golden Kölsch beer, served in tall, slender glasses, has an exceptionally elegant taste.

 

In Taiwan, most people’s impression of beer comes from Pilsener, but Pilsener is just the tip of the iceberg among the many types of beer. Even within Pilsener, there are further subdivisions based on different textures. Therefore, in German bars and taverns, you can no longer simply order a “bier.” Although there are countless types of German beer, there’s no need to memorize them all. On the drink menu, it’s enough to recognize the main types such as Pilsener, Weisse, Weizen, Schwarzbier, and Altbier. For unfamiliar names, you can always ask the bartender about the beer’s characteristics before ordering.

Since you’re in Germany, the land of beer, skip the canned beer from convenience stores. The freshest and most authentic taste of German beer comes straight from the tap in taverns and restaurants—and only there can you enjoy it in the perfect glass. Each type of beer has its own distinct qualities: some are highly sensitive to temperature, others emphasize aroma diffusion, and factors like foam, taste, and even drinking style can vary based on the shape of the glass. That’s why each beer has its own specially designed glass. For example, Munich beer is served in a sturdy mug with a handle, wheat beer in a streamlined glass that’s wider at the top and narrower at the bottom, Pilsener in a fluted glass, and Cologne beer in a tall, slender glass—ensuring each beer’s sensory experience is fully brought to life.

Every October, Oktoberfest puts Munich on the map as the “Beer Capital” and becomes the city’s top tourist attraction of the year. Millions of visitors from around the world flock here, filling the massive beer tents throughout the festival grounds with non-stop cheer.

 

The origins of Munich Oktoberfest date back to 1810, when the citizens of Munich celebrated the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig I. Held annually from late September to early October for about 16 days, it draws partygoers from all over the globe. With nearly 200 years of history, Munich Oktoberfest stands out not only for its atmosphere but also for its craftsmanship. Beyond the colossal beer tents, visitors are treated to a dazzling array of amusement rides, traditional Bavarian food, and live music performances. Everyone is here to eat, drink, and revel in the festive buzz.

 

Beyond Munich, Stuttgart’s Oktoberfest is equally spectacular. Unlike Munich’s wedding-inspired origins, Stuttgart’s Oktoberfest began in 1818 after a poor harvest. At the time, the beloved young queen of the Grand Duchy of Baden-Württemberg organized a harvest festival to support the people, eventually evolving into the food-and-fun extravaganza it is today. Reflecting this history, a 24-meter-tall Fruchtsäule (fruit column) has stood in the festival grounds for over 100 years as a symbol of gratitude.

 

Basically, Stuttgart and Munich’s Oktoberfests are quite similar, even sharing the same timing, starting two weekends before the first Sunday of October. The lively atmosphere here rivals—or even surpasses—that of the world-famous Munich event. The sprawling outdoor amusement park outside the beer tents is packed with adrenaline-pumping rides, drawing crowds eager for thrills and good times.

 

Excessive drinking is harmful to health

 

 

●  Read more: 4 German Scenic Routes to Explore Centuries of Medieval Charm

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