Summary
Germany’s Beer Purity Law, known in German as the Reinheitsgebot, turned 500 years old in 2016. The law from 1516 dictates that the only ingredients used for brewing are barley, hops, and water. This protects the beer from cheaper additives and makes for an infinitely drinkable brew.
This law is still followed by many major breweries in Germany – even centuries later. Look for the label of Reinheitsgebot prominently displayed on bottles or go to these Munich locations to celebrate Germany’s 500-year-old Beer Purity Law.
1. Munich’s Oktoberfest
Munich’s Oktoberfest is always a massive boozy celebration, and this year’s festivities are sure to draw the biggest crowds ever.
Many of the Oktoberfest breweries predate the 500-year-old law, but tradition holds that the beer served in the tents meets the Bavarian Purity Requirements. Most beers are light-tasting Helles, with a heavy Dunkel (dark German lager) also available in the massive one-litre glass Maß. Taste the tradition and appreciate the purity.
2. Beer Festivals (other than Oktoberfest)
After Oktoberfest, you don’t need to leave the Wiesn (festival grounds) for more beer; just wait a couple of months.
If you want a similar fest with an even more powerful punch, try Starkbierzeit (Strong Beer Season) and its “insiders’ Oktoberfest” local vibe.
Münchner Frühlingsfest is the little sister to Oktoberfest, offering half the crowds, usually better weather, and just as plentiful beers. The design features a pretzel on a blue ribbon and a fresh beer – delicious.
3. Bavarian State Exhibition
Take your beer knowledge to school with the Bavarian State Exhibition. The 2016 program focuses on Beer in Bavaria and the Reinheitsgebot. Taking place at the monastery Brauerei Aldersbach (about two hours northeast of Munich above Lake Ammersee), the festival will cover different weekly themes like “beer and football” and “beer and brass bands.” What doesn’t pair well with beer?
4. Hofbrauhaus
Few places in Munich are as heavily touristed as Hofbrauhaus, but that doesn’t make it less worthy of a visit. Established in 1589 as the Royal Brewery of the Kingdom of Bavaria, the most famous beer hall in the world is located just a few steps from the central square of Marienplatz. Take a seat with locals and visitors at the long, wooden tables, some over 100 years old, and listen to Oompah Bands as you dig into a Schweinshaxe with a fine Hofbräu Original beer.
For a taste of Bavarian gemütlichkeit in the less boisterous north, you can find a Hofbrauhaus in Berlin, as well as Augustiner.
5. Beer and Oktoberfest Museum
If you want to study the science of beer and understand the standards that have defined a country’s favorite drink for 500 years, there is no better place than Munich’s Beer and Oktoberfest Museum. If you desire a taste to enjoy the museum further, there are guided tours and beer tastings.
6. Hotels in Munich
After all this reverent beer drinking, you will need a place to stay. Refer to reputable hotel finders or consider our list of nearby accommodations.
- Best Munich Hostels
- Top 5 Luxury Hotels in Munich
- Best Hotels in Munich – Under 100 Euros
- Munich Hotels Near Oktoberfest
- Last-minute Oktoberfest Accommodations
