Celebrate Oktoberfest with Skagway Brewing Company’s 1898 Oktoberfest Bier!

Our newest seasonal beer, the 1898 Oktoberfest Bier, was released on September 20 this year to coincide with its namesake event. This delightful brew is a tribute to the rich history of German brewing in Skagway.

A Taste of History

Like much of the West Coast and the rest of the nation, Skagway has a fascinating history of German brewing. Back in the Gold Rush days, Skagway Brewing’s first brewer, Hermann Barthel, was a German immigrant. He brewed beer in San Francisco for years before migrating north. His goal? To quench the thirst of the many prospectors traveling to the Klondike!

German Roots, Local Influence

While we have no record of Oktoberfest beers or celebrations in Alaska during that time, our modern brewers have crafted a delicious seasonal brew inspired by Skagway’s German influence and frontier spirit.

According to Dave “Chowdah” Fleming, a key consulting member of our brewing team, our 1898 “could easily have been brewed at the original Skaguay Brewing at the turn of the 20th century.” This beer has German roots and is made with German malt, yeast, and noble hops that trace back to the Hallertauer region of Bavaria.

It’s dark straw in color with just a hint of caramel malt for a slight chestnut tone. This beer is light and refreshing, featuring mild floral hoppiness. You’ll also notice a touch of sweetness from the specialty malts, which sing notes of toasted biscuit and subtle toffee. With its dry finish and an ABV of under 5%, this is a beer you can enjoy all day long!

The 1898 Oktoberfest Bier joins our lineup of seasonal releases, which also included a Rye IPA and a Kölsch (so popular, we brewed another batch!).

Why is Oktoberfest in September?

Oktoberfest originated in Munich, the capital of Bavaria, Germany. It was first celebrated on October 10, 1810, to mark a royal wedding. Over time, the festival moved earlier so revelers could enjoy better weather for the indoor/outdoor festivities.

This year, Munich’s Oktoberfest kicked off on September 20. We chose the same date to release our new seasonal beer! We celebrated with live music, a menu of Bavarian favorites, and contests. It might be impossible to prove, but there’s a good chance it was the world’s smallest celebration of Oktoberfest, filled nonetheless with herzlich gemütlichkeit.

Join Us for the Festivities!

We invite you to join us at Skagway Brewing Company for a taste of our 1898 Oktoberfest Bier! Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this beer is a perfect way to celebrate the season.

Imagine sipping a refreshing brew while enjoying the lively atmosphere of our brewery. With live music and delicious food, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

The Perfect Pairing

What goes best with our Oktoberfest Bier? We recommend trying it with some classic Bavarian dishes! Think pretzels, sausages, and schnitzel. The flavors of the beer complement these dishes beautifully.

Sustainable Brewing Practices

At Skagway Brewing Company, we are committed to sustainability and local sourcing. We believe in supporting our community and minimizing our environmental impact. By choosing local ingredients, we not only enhance the flavor of our beers but also contribute to the local economy.

Craft Beer Culture in Skagway

Skagway has a vibrant craft beer culture. As more visitors come to experience the beauty of Alaska, we’re excited to share our passion for brewing. Our beers tell the story of our region, combining traditional methods with local flavors.

A Community Gathering Place

Our brewery is more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. We host events, live music, and community gatherings throughout the year. Everyone is welcome!

Explore More Seasonal Brews

Don’t forget to check out our other seasonal brews! Each one is crafted with care and inspired by the unique flavors of our region. From IPAs to stouts, there’s something for everyone at Skagway Brewing Company.

Conclusion

So, what are you waiting for? Come celebrate Oktoberfest with us! Enjoy our 1898 Oktoberfest Bier and experience the warmth and hospitality of Skagway Brewing Company. We can’t wait to see you here!