It's never too early to plan Oktoberfest

First, recall that Oktoberfest actually starts in September. And, given that it's almost August, it's not too early to start getting geared up for September, which, as we've noted, means Oktoberfest.

And that means sausage.

The folks at Marx Foods have passed along their exotic sausage sampler, in case those standard pork brats won't fly for you this year.

The Specialty Sausage Sampler is seven pounds and includes 4 links of each of the following:
Venison Sausage with Merlot and Blueberries
Lamb Merguez
Buffalo Sausage with Chipotle Chilies
Duck Sausage with Foie Gras & Sauterne Wine
Duck Sausage with Orange Liquor
Rabbit Sausage with White Wine
Wild Boar Sausage with Cranberries and Shiraz
Smoked Duck Sausage with Apple Brandy
Wild Boar Beer Bratwurst

This sausage is great skewered as an appetizer, grilled, sautéed or paired with pasta for a main course. The sausages cook quickly (less than 10 minutes on the grill) making them a simple, yet elegant, dinner option.

“My favorite way to make the sausage is grilled, sliced and skewered with a fig and watercress. It’s an effortless appetizer that’s delicious and results in an impressive presentation,” said Katy Springer, General Manager of MarxFoods.com.