November 2007 Archives
With this review, I may be done with the Trader Joe's beers for a while. I expect Octoberfests to vary widely, but this particular version just doesn't fit the bill. A lager that behaves like an American Pale Ale isn't really necessary in my book.
Characteristics: Medium-copper color, light body, slightly stinging carbonation without any real head, sour hoppy tones dominate at start and finish over a yeasty middle.
Gripes: I've gotten headaches from drinking this beer, for no perceptible reason. I'm also not a fan of the hop-heavy American pale ales, so your mileage may vary.
Bottom Line: Trader Joe's produces a dull and uninspired effort at a fest beer. Even the mass-produced Sam Adams Octoberfest beats this one, never mind the heavyweight Hofbrau or other import variations.
Rating: 4 / 10
Characteristics: Medium-copper color, light body, slightly stinging carbonation without any real head, sour hoppy tones dominate at start and finish over a yeasty middle.
Gripes: I've gotten headaches from drinking this beer, for no perceptible reason. I'm also not a fan of the hop-heavy American pale ales, so your mileage may vary.
Bottom Line: Trader Joe's produces a dull and uninspired effort at a fest beer. Even the mass-produced Sam Adams Octoberfest beats this one, never mind the heavyweight Hofbrau or other import variations.
Rating: 4 / 10
