Celebrate Oktoberfest with a local brew

For many, the world-famous German festival Oktoberfest is cause for celebration, and a great excuse for imbibing a traditional malty brew or two. Colored leaves fall from the trees during this dayslong, end-of-September observance. There’s a slight nip in the air. There may be a person wearing lederhosen while hoisting a large stein in any pub you happen to walk into.

In Germany, the Oktoberfest brewing style describes beers brewed specifically for the event in Munich, which is scheduled for Sept. 17 through Oct. 3 this year. In the late 1800s, Spaten Brewery introduced the more malty, amber-hued Märzen, which then became the official beer of the fest. Today, Festbier?—?noted for using paler malts for a more golden-colored and less-heavy beer?—?is the official style....