February 2004
Brewer's Feast
The Starkbierzeit (strong beer season), or as
Münchner call it, the
“fifth season,” is upon us once more. Although it doesn’t get into full swing until March, many locations don’t want to wait that long. According to anecdotes the
Starkbierzeit came about after the 18th-century monks brewed extra strong beer, also known as “liquid bread,” to help sustain them through Lent. The strong malty flavor can mask the fact that most brews start at a potent 7.5 percent alcohol content, so sample a
Mass at your own risk! The first day at the official venue, Paulaner am Nockherberg, attracts a huge crowd to witness the traditional keg-tapping ceremony. Their season runs from March 12 through 28, and you can reserve places by calling (089) 45 99 13 65, Mon.-Fri. 10 am–4 pm. Or you can visit the Löwenbräukeller on Nymphenburgerstrasse, which begins its program on February 27. As well as the usual festivities, they offer a stone-lifting competition and the grand champion is crowned on the final night.
