For example, the famous Oktoberfest, a national celebration devoted to beer taking place every year in Munich, is one of the most important events of the year.

Apart from beer, Germany produces decent wine and a number of stronger alcohols.

The country's flagship is Jaegermeister, a strong liquer made with 56 different herbs.

Germans often drink various kinds of Schnapps, or fruit brandies, such as Kirschwasser, a kind of brandy made from cherry juice.

Other popular drinks include Apfelwein, which is a German version of cider, and Wassail, a hot and spicy punch traditionally served in the winter, especially for Christmas and New Year's Eve.