Adapted from BJCP Beer Styles Ver. 8/9/99

2. EUROPEAN PALE LAGER

2A. Bohemian Pilsner

Aroma: Rich with a complex malt and a spicy, floral, Saaz hop bouquet. Moderate diacetyl acceptable.

Appearance: Light gold to deep copper-gold, clear, with a dense, creamy white head.

Flavor: Rich, complex maltiness combined with pronounced soft, rounded bitterness and flavor from Saaz hops. Moderate diacetyl acceptable. Bitterness is prominent but never harsh, and does not linger: The aftertaste is balanced between malt and hops. Clean, no fruitiness or esters.

Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied, medium carbonation.

Overall Impression: Crisp, complex and well-rounded yet refreshing.

History: First brewed in 1842, this style was the original clear, light-colored beer.

Comments: Uses Moravian malted barley and a decoction mash for rich, malt character. Saaz hops and low sulfate, low carbonate water provide a distinctively soft, rounded hop profile.

Ingredients: Low sulfate and low carbonate water, Saaz hops, Moravian malted barley.

Vital Statistics: OG: 1.044-1.056
IBUs: 35-45 FG: 1.013-1.017
SRM: 3-5 ABV: 4-5.3%

Commercial Examples: Pilsner Urquell, Gambrinus Pilsner, Budweiser Budvar, Staropramen.

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