Out of the many varieties of beer, pilsner is one of the most popular. Originating in the Czech city of Pilsen in the 19th century, the pilsner is a type of lager characterised by its golden shade, light body, and crisp flavour profile. With its refreshing taste, pilsner beer has become one of the most popular beer styles worldwide.
The history of pilsner
Did you know that pilsner beer has a fascinating history? The story begins in 1842 when Bavarian brewer Josef Groll introduced a new brewing method in Pilsen. This method combined pale malts with Saaz hops, producing a clear, golden beer that was a stark contrast to the darker ales of the time.
This innovation not only revolutionised beer brewing in Pilsen but also set the standard for lagers globally.
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What ingredients are used to make pilsner?
The main ingredients in pilsner beer are the same as any other beers–water, barley, malt, hops, and yeast. However, the water is what differentiates this beer from the rest.
The water used in brewing pilsner beer, especially from Pilsen, is soft and low in minerals, which helps achieve the beer’s clean and crisp taste.
Barley malt gives pilsner beer its distinctive pale colour, while hops, particularly the Saaz variety, impart a subtle bitterness and floral aroma.
Lastly, the yeast used in pilsner beer fermentation is a bottom-fermenting lager yeast, contributing to its smooth finish.
The pilsner brewing process
Brewing pilsner involves several steps. First, the barley malt is mashed and mixed with water to convert the starches into fermentable sugars. This mixture is then boiled with hops to add bitterness and aroma.
After boiling, the wort is cooled and fermented with lager yeast at low temperatures. The beer is then conditioned for several weeks, allowing it to develop its signature clean and crisp flavour before being filtered and packaged.
Types of pilsner
Pilsner can be broadly classified into two categories: Czech Pilsners and German Pilsners.
Czech Pilsners, also known as Bohemian Pilsners, have a more pronounced malt sweetness and a slightly darker hue.
German Pilsners, on the other hand, are lighter in colour and have a more pronounced hop bitterness.
Both styles, however, retain the refreshing qualities that make pilsner such a crowd favourite.
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How to serve pilsner for the best experience
Like most beers, pilsner is best served cold, at a temperature between 4 to 7 degrees Celsius. Using a tall, narrow glass can enhance its effervescence and help maintain the head, which is crucial for capturing the beer's aroma.
Pour the pilsner beer slowly, tilting the glass to avoid too much foam, and then straighten the glass to create a perfect head.
Armed with what you now know about the pilsner, it’s time to enjoy a glass yourself! If you’re looking to explore the varieties of pilsners available to you, head on over to your nearest Red & White store or visit minuman.com to order yours today.
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