Schell's Snowstorm 2021 Oat Starkbier

Schell's Snowstorm 2021 Oat Starkbier.

6.1 % ABV, 25 IBU. August Schell Brewing, New Ulm, MN. 

I've taken far too long with this one. It's been out for two months. This year I wised up and bought a 12-pack, before even trying it. I just have faith that anything in this series will be good, and 12-packs are a sound value.That 12-pack of cans was purchased on December 11, according to my first check-in on Untappd. Now, 11 cans later, it is at last time to take some notes. And here we go...

First of all, what is a "oat starkbier"? Sources tell me that it is a completely invented designation, meant to stave off any comparisons to other beers of whatever style it would be named. "Starkbier" means "strong beer", and while 6.1 % ABV doesn't seem strong, it is compared to the typical German beer. And it's made with oat malt. How does it taste? Wait, first, what's it look like? 

Crystal clear, deep amber hued, large, lush cloud-white hue. 

In the nose:  caramel, moderate hops, slight sweetness. Lightly toasty. 

In the mouth: Brief little hop buzz on the palate, then the kiss of malts rushes up. Light bodied, easy drinking. Hearty malt flavors keep up persistent, if mild-ish, hop bitterness. Exceptionally smooth. A lot of tastiness in this little can. 

I always wish that the Snowstorm series beers were all darker and richer, but then I have to come to terms with the fact that they've been doing this for nearly 20 years (or more?), and they've never repeated anything. You certainly can't complain when it's at face value just a damned good, tasty beer. 

As every Midwesterner knows, no two snowstorms are ever alike and that’s what makes this brew so special. This year’s Oat Starkbier is a malt-driven dark lager meant for the coldest of winter nights. The creamy mouthfeel from the oats smooths out the toasty notes, amplifying the rich Munich malt before a crisp finish.