Hops for Märzen?

[LloydGM]

I have a good recipe for old Märzen which uses Saaz hops, but I think my IBU is a tad low (8-ish). I was thinking of maybe trying Hallertauer or Tettnanger this Christmas.

Thoughts & opinions?

 

[ncbrewer]

BJCP guidelines call for 18 - 24 IBUs. You can get that from Saaz as well as any other.

 

[LloydGM]

Aye, got that part down pat. I can hit 20 with larger amounts of Saaz, but it's a tad too hoppy and decreasing it makes it a tad too malty...I can't seem to get the perfect balance which is why I was looking for others' opinions.

 

[filthyastronaut]

Sterling is an American, higher-alpha version of Saaz with the possibility for some Cascade-like citrus, but I use it a lot and only get that when I use it in higher quantities. You could use it as a FWH on its own for a Marzen.

 

[SEndorf]

For Oktoberfest I use Hallertau and shoot for 20 IBU.

 

[govner1]

I used Crystal in the Märzen I brewed this year (March) and lagered until September. Turned out great!

 

[Sadu]

Motueka is my go-to hop for Euro lagers, when I need a bit more bittering power and noble-style character. It sits around 7% instead of 4%.