What makes the Walberfest so special? Sometimes, it’s not about the beer.

The Walberlafest is perhaps Germany's oldest spring festival. Set high on a hill called the Walberla, it is certainly the most atmospheric. Hike around it before ascending for the most dramatic entrance.

rocky outcropping, hill with church, dark beer, half-timbered house in reflection

The Walberla Undressed

The Walberla is a special hill in Franconian Switzerland. Just west of Forchheim, it offers great hiking opportunities and some fine small regional breweries surrounding it.

The Magic of the Walberla

The Walberlafest is perhaps Germany's oldest spring festival. Set high on a hill called the Walberla, it is certainly the most atmospheric.

Alt Vollbier Hell

Alt Vollbier Hell Brewery: Alt Dietzhof Town: Dietzhof Style: Vollbier Hell Color: golden Head: rocky Nose: slight malt Body: medium Palate: malty flavor, some grain, hops Finish: clean, bitter Served: on tap at the brewery Impression: Though a nice session beer, I made the mistake of having it after the brewery's Vollbier Dunkel so a … Continue reading Alt Vollbier Hell

Alt Vollbier Dunkel

Alt Vollbier Dunkel Brewery: Alt Dietzhof Town: Dietzhof Style: Vollbier Dunkel Color: chestnut Head: off white, dense Nose: malty with a whiff of licorice Body: medium-bodied, low carbonation Palate: malty flavor, some roast and licorice notes Finish: long, dry, bitter Served: on tap at the brewery Impression: I'd had their beer at the Fränkisches Bierfest … Continue reading Alt Vollbier Dunkel