It’s Oktoberfest season, and we’re celebrating by bringing Episodes 108 & 109 (Parts 1 and 2) of our conversation with Hofbräuhaus America together into one complete episode!

Steve and Scott are joined by Steve Ksycki and Jerry Bishop from Hofbräuhaus America to dive into the beer, history, culture, and traditions behind one of the most recognizable names in German beer.

We explore what makes an authentic Munich Oktoberfest beer different from many of the Oktoberfest beers Americans are familiar with, why Hofbräuhaus chose to bring the same style served in Munich to the United States, and how centuries of Bavarian brewing tradition continue to shape the brand today.

We also talk about the legendary Hofbräuhaus München, the history and pride surrounding Bavarian beer culture, the Reinheitsgebot, traditional German beer styles, proper glassware, Hofbräuhaus locations in the United States, and what it takes to bring authentic Hofbräuhaus beer from Munich to American beer drinkers.

And, of course, we get into Oktoberfest itself—including the six Munich breweries, the beer served at the festival, and why Hofbräu's connection to Oktoberfest is about much more than simply releasing a seasonal beer.

Whether you're planning an Oktoberfest celebration, love German beer, have visited Munich, or simply want to understand the history behind the beer in your stein, this episode is a deep dive into the traditions that have made Hofbräuhaus part of Bavarian beer culture for centuries.

Originally released as Episodes 108 & 109 of The Brewery Underground Podcast, now combined and re-released as one complete episode for Oktoberfest season.

Prost!