Master of Marzen 2020 – Round 2, Bout 15: Double Nickel Brewing vs. Huss Brewing

Round 2, Bout 15 of Master of Marzen 2020 sees Double Nickel Brewing (NJ) take on Huss Brewing (AZ).

I am somewhat familiar with Double Nickel, having tried one of their IPAs in the past. Round 1 was my first time trying a Huss brew, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how this bout shakes out.

Check out the Round 2 draw.

Packaging Design

Both breweries have some take on the Oktoberfest motif in this bout.

Double Nickel’s Zeitgeist has an almost absurdist take on the traditional blue and white check. I appreciate an interesting take on the norm, making for a very visually appealing can.

Huss has designed a very clean can that leverages white space well, and also includes some traditional Oktoberfest check in the background.

I give this one to Double Nickel for a novel approach on the traditional design. Running total: Double Nickel 1-0 Huss.

Aroma

Double Nickel’s Zeitgeist offers a powerful, warm and malty aroma with a touch of earth and sweetness. It smells like it will be delicious.

Huss’ Oktoberfest is a little stronger comparatively, offering a very deep and malty aroma. It also smells like it will be a tasty brew.

I’m giving a slight edge to Huss, as its aroma offers a bit more depth than the Double Nickel version. Running total: Double Nickel 1-1 Huss.

Flavor

Zeitgeist does an impeccable job of navigating the balance between flavor and drinkability. It’s a mild, warm, and slightly sweet experience that leverages malts well. The aftertaste has a malty bite, without overpowering. Amazing brew.

Huss offers a deeper, malt-forward experience. It’s a much more consistent brew from start to finish, which sees toasted malts and a sweet streak well balanced.

I’m going to give this one to Double Nickel. It manages the complexities of transitioning flavors amazingly. Running total: Double Nickel 2-1 Huss.

Body

Well, as you can see below, neither beer retained much head. A slight advantage in lacing may be awarded to Zeitgeist.

Regarding mouthfeel, Zeitgeist is mid-bodied and smooth. It offers a ton of flavor without overwhelming. Very well brewed.

Huss’ Oktoberfest is a little heavier and more highly carbonated. It’s also quite smooth and drinkable.

Again, I give a slight edge to Double Nickel. Running total: Double Nickel 3-1 Huss.

People’s Choice

As in last year’s tournament, my Instagram followers have the opportunity to shape the decisions of each bout. In the 24 hours directly preceding each bout, a poll is placed on my Instagram story. Whoever has the most votes when the poll closes, takes this fifth criteria. So how did it shape up?

Reasonably close, but Double Nickel takes this one. Running total: Double Nickel 4-1 Huss.

Results

This bout was closer than the 4-1 split may indicate on face value. Two tasty beers entered, but only Double Nickel will continue to round 3 where they meet the winner of Brew Monkey vs. 3 Sheeps.

Be sure to check back regularly and to follow me on Instagram for your latest updates and opportunity to vote on each bout throughout the tournament. Until next time, cheers y’all!

Check out the Round 2 draw.