Beer Review: Ottakringer Helles

Ottakringer Brewery Helles Lager

My friend from Austria recently brought two cans of this back. He said it is the equivalent to a Budweiser over there, being prevalent in almost every bar. The Vienna stunner pours a slightly hazy golden yellow color. Short lived but noticeable head without any lacing. Aroma is nonexistent.

The flavor is OK. Tastes very similar to a standard Euro lager (Heineken or Becks) with few differences. Clean malt flavor with a very brief hop punch. By brief I mean by the time you notice it, the flavor is gone. The malt flavor is a bit richer than a Euro lager but not a whole lot of difference. Bit of boiled vegetable taste going on. Fortunately not skunky.

Definitely a step up from the bland Budweiser but really nothing that you couldn't get in America in a better form. If you find yourself in Austria and want to try a domestic its worth a shot but don't expect to be wowed. I don't hate it but it doesn't get too much love. I am sure Austria has much better beer to offer.

Final Score: 61% (Light on Hops. Light in Malt. Light on Score.)