The famous Oktoberfest takes place in Munich, but similar beer festivals are now celebrated worldwide. This includes California, where Sierra Nevada hosts its own Oktoberfest event. For several years, the perfect Festbier for the occasion has been developed in collaboration with German breweries. This year, the support comes from Northern Germany, specifically from the Störtebeker Braumanufaktur in Stralsund.
Two Pioneers, One Brew
The collaboration isn't a coincidence. Both breweries are considered pioneers of the craft beer movement—one with Hanseatic brewing tradition, the other with Californian innovation. "We share a passion for authentic, artisanal beer and the courage to break new ground with Sierra Nevada," says Jens Reineke-Lautenbacher, Head of Product Development at Störtebeker.
One Recipe, Two Signatures
The recipe was created through close consultation between both teams. Part of the hops comes directly from Bavaria—a salute from the home of the original Oktoberfest. Brian Grossman, Head Brewer and owner of Sierra Nevada, emphasizes: "This beer expresses a deep friendship and connection. It blends German brewing tradition with modern craft beer perspectives."
Oktoberfest Beer—Only Authentic from Munich?
In Europe, "Oktoberfestbier" has been registered since 2022 as a geographically protected indication (g.g.A.) and is exclusively reserved for the six major Munich breweries: Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten. The term "Oktoberfest" itself is also protected by trademark and belongs to the City of Munich. For all other breweries, the rule is to get creative—using terms like "Festbier," "Märzen," or "Oktoberfest-Style."
This is why the official sale of the collaboration beer is limited to the US market. These regulations do not apply there: In the US, "Oktoberfest" is a common style designation for Märzen or Festbiers and can be freely used, as long as it doesn't suggest a false origin.
Cheers, or as they say at the Oktoberfest in Munich: "Ein Prosit auf die Gemütlichkeit"—"A toast to conviviality" (or "A toast to good times").
Photo: Brian Grossman, Sierra Nevada and Jens Reineke-Lautenbacher, Störtebeker brewing in the US.
© Störtebeker Braumanufaktur
