A Brief History of Pilsners

First brewed in the Czech city of Pilsen in the mid-19th century, pilsners quickly became the most popular style of beer in the world. This pale lager is typically light in color, with a crisp and refreshing taste and a mild bitterness. For many beer drinkers, the pilsner is the perfect beer for a hot summer day.

What Makes a Modern Pilsner Different?

In recent years, craft breweries have been putting their own spin on the classic pilsner style. These modern pilsners often have a more complex flavor profile, with notes of citrus, tropical fruit, and even spice. They may be hoppier than traditional pilsners, with a higher alcohol content as well.

5 of the Best Modern Pilsners

1. Firestone Walker Pivo Pils

   This California brewery has won numerous awards for its take on the classic pilsner style. Pivo Pils is a hoppy, refreshing beer with a distinct Saaz hop character. It’s low in alcohol and easy to drink, but still has enough complexity to satisfy beer geeks.

2. Allagash Crosspath

   This Portland, Maine brewery is known for its Belgian-style beers, but they also make an excellent pilsner. Crosspath is brewed with Continental hops and a Belgian yeast strain, giving it a spicy, floral flavor profile. It’s a refreshing beer with a dry finish that pairs well with food.

3. Cigar City Table Saison

   This Florida brewery is best known for its bold, hoppy IPAs, but they also make a great pilsner. Table Saison is a light, refreshing beer with a crisp, clean taste and a subtle hop profile. It’s the perfect beer to drink with a meal, as it won’t overpower the flavors of your food.

4. Weihenstephaner Pilsner

   This German brewery has been around for over 1,000 years, and they know a thing or two about brewing beer. Their Pilsner is a classic example of the style, with a clean, crisp taste and a mild hop profile. It’s a great beer to drink on a hot summer day, or to pair with German food.

5. Troegs Sunshine Pils

   This Pennsylvania brewery is known for its hoppy IPAs, but they also make a great pilsner. Sunshine Pils is a light, refreshing beer with a citrusy hop character and a crisp, dry finish. It’s a perfect beer for drinking on a warm day, or for pairing with spicy food.

Conclusion

Modern craft breweries are always looking for new ways to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional beer styles. These 5 pilsners represent some of the best examples of modern craft beer design, with their complex flavor profiles, unique hop profiles, and crisp, refreshing finishes. Whether you’re a beer geek or a casual drinker, you’re sure to find something to love in these great pilsners.