Märzens are characterized by a medium body and broad range of color. Oktoberfests can range from golden to reddish brown. Sweet maltiness should dominate slightly over a clean, hop bitterness. Malt character should be light-toasted rather than strongly caramel (though a low level of light caramel character is acceptable). Bread or biscuit like malt character is acceptable in aroma and flavor. Hop aroma and flavor should be low but notable. Fruity esters should not be perceived. Diacetyl and chill haze should not be perceived.
