“We had been itching for some time to make a somewhat strong, full-bodied Helles. So we made a batch of Pils with an elevated level of original wort, 13.6%. Additionally, we dry-hopped generously, using our traditional Hersbrucker noble hops. This way, this time-honored variety of hops, a native of our Franconian home country, will fully develop its impressive aromatic potential. Our Zwickel Pils is a non-filtered beer, paying homage to the tradition of bottling straight from the barrel. Satisfyingly full-bodied and aromatic with hops. Our Zwickel is a Weissenohe masterpiece of an expressive, regional and traditional specialty beer.”

Glassware: Flute.

Appearance: Pale light golden complexion with a sturdy two finger head which holds together nicely. Good lacing clings to the glass as it ebbs.

Aroma: Nice and light, crisp, herbaceous and grassy. Very delicate fruity accents atop a super clean grainy malt profile. Hay and straw, crackers and a somewhat funky yogurt-like scent which gains more traction as it settles. Quite a strange aroma for a Pilsner and just as we go to take the first sip we see the beer is almost a year old. 

Flavour: That yogurt character doesn’t translate to the palate thankfully so the age on the beer isn’t going to kill us, hopefully. Fairly classic Pilsner notes – grassy herbal hops, wet hay/straw, mild fruity notes and semi sweet grainy malts. A little earthy at the back as it finishes slightly dry and grassy/herbal.

Mouthfeel: Crisp, light-medium body. Good Co2. The 5.6% ABV is lifted for the style.. especially considering the the traditional nature of it.

Overall: Don’t know about this one. The best thing about it is the ceramic crock-style bottle but the actual beer itself is a bit underwhelming. Then again the age of it could be a factor so we may have to try it again when it’s fresh.