We all knew beer was big in Germany…but when you come here, a visit to the plethora of beer gardens is just the tip of the iceberg. The other day we found a colorful flyer titled, “Bavarian Beer and Food Tour,” a three and a half hour frolick through the city to a beer and Oktoberfest museum where we brushed up on some beer history, sampled an array of brands, and popped into a beer garden where we sampled the native foods, and of course, a glass or two.
The day began with a clink of glasses, a glass of beer, naturally. With three Englishmen, an Aussie gal, Irish couple, and two Americans (us) in tow… we made quite a sightly spectacle.
Tid-Bits for your Travel Pocket
What’s your’s is mine and what’s mine is….mine
Whatever beer is made in München stays in München. No exportation. Munch on that.
Seeing Stars
The Star of David…not just the Jewish symbol. In the Middle Ages it actually was hung on different buildings and inns to show that yes, indeed, beer was for sale.
Shine your Light
Helles lager beer (light beer) is the locals’ favorite, arguably the best in Munchen, and possibly in the world…or so they say.
Beer for dinner?
Also in the Middle Ages, housewives spent the entire day brewing beer and baking bread for their husbands while they worked the field. Bread and beer. That was dinner. I know boys in the States right now who are thinking, ‘dang what a life.’
Monk of the Party
Monks were actually revolutionary in the mass production of beer. In the Middle Ages they began brewing their own to sell in the countryside where they dwelled, but eventually were able to charge cities whatever they wished for their delectable concoction…they were, after all, the ones who discovered ‘hops’ a small thistle-like looking plant which is now one of the main ingredients in most beers.
Fact vs. Fiction
The darker the beer the better… for your health? Mmmm negative. I don’t really know where I heard this or from who, but I’m guessing I’m not the only one whose been deceived by this false fable. Dark beer, light beer, purple beer, rainbow beer, it’s all the same in calories and content. Drat, I know. However, wheat beer is actually better for you. Wheat beer can be dark, can be light, so be wary, appearance lies. This better-for-you beverage does typically have a clove or cinnamon aftertaste however. Took the taste buds some getting used to but I found it tasty.
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