I come from Germany: about the kölsch beer style
If you go to Cologne, Germany, and enter any brewery, you will be poured a small glass of light beer, very soft and drinkable. This is Kölsch, a legendary style of beer, somewhat similar to other light beers such as lagers, pilsners and ales, but unique in its own way. What is its peculiarity and how to drink kölsch properly — we will tell you in this article.
Just the facts
Unlike many varieties with a long history, kölsch appeared relatively recently — about 120 years ago. Its birthplace is Cologne, hence the name, which literally translates as «Cologne». Even today the city continues to preserve its heritage: only 20 breweries can brew Kölsch, and all of them are located either in Cologne itself or in its vicinity.
The recipe and brewing technology are controlled by the Kölner Brauerei-Verband, an organization of Cologne brewers. However, kölsch is still brewed outside Germany, most often by small craft breweries, but unofficially.
Beer with the flavor of German summer
Kölsch belongs to hybrid styles, a kind of exception to the general division into lagers and ales. It is not too appropriate to compare it with other light styles: it is less bitter than German pils, not as fruity as ales, not as malty as helles.
There is no single recipe for the drink. Each brewery decides for itself how much hops and malt to add. Kölsch is well-fermented, has an average strength of 4-5 degrees and a bright hop profile.
The flavor of this unique beer is fresh, slightly sweet, with pronounced notes of bread, flowers, honey, spices, and grass. Minerality is present in the aftertaste. The aroma is delicate, malty, with tones of hops and fruit.
Beer serving in German bars deserves special attention. It is poured into stem glasses — long low glasses with the volume of only 0.2 liters. This is explained by the fact that kölsch is quickly exhausted in the air, so it should be consumed as soon as possible. Drinking the variety ice-cold is not recommended, it is usually heated to 8-10 degrees.
Looking for a place to try popular beers? Come to Lambic! Our beer restaurants feature labels from all over the world. We also have a varied menu with many interesting European dishes, cozy atmosphere and excellent service. Come — we’ll find something you’ll like!
Japanese beer Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager
It is tacitly believed that the best beer is brewed in Europe — Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic. However, there are other countries which produce high-quality foam, it is just that it is not so popular in Russia. For example, Japan. Connoisseurs will confirm: it is almost impossible to find tasteless beer in the land of the rising sun. On the shelves of Japanese stores there are both classic varieties and unusual labels. A bright representative of the latter is Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager. Let’s find out what exactly it is good for. Freshness and harmony The original Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager is brewed on the basis of Hitachino Nest Lager light lager, but with a secret ingredient. Yuzu juice, or Japanese citron, is added to the drink. Thanks to this fruit, the taste and aroma of the beer acquires characteristic citrus notes, refreshing sourness and piquant bitterness. In addition to yuzu itself, the flavor of Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager has notes of tangerine, grapefruit, malt and hops. And in addition to the citrus sourness, the full-bodied flavor also shows light malt notes. Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager is so refreshing and drinkable that it is often consumed without gastronomic accompaniment, as an aperitif. It is the perfect drink for hot weather or to quench thirst. This beer can also be served with light appetizers, salads and seafood. A bit of history If you want to delve more into Japanese beer culture, it’s also worth learning more about the maker of Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager. This is a Kiuchi company founded by Kiuchi Nihei in the city of Naka in 1823. Initially, the company only produced sake, and later switched to other alcohols such as wine, liqueurs, and beer. In 1996, Kiuchi put beer production on stream by opening its own mini-brewery, Hitachino Nest. Hitachino is the old name of the province, which in ancient times was known for its fertile soils and abundant crops of grains from which excellent beer was brewed. Kiuchi products have repeatedly received prestigious awards at beer competitions and festivals, not only in Japan, but also abroad. The beer is appreciated for its excellent taste and quality, and the company itself is appreciated for its loyalty to tradition: since its foundation, for almost two centuries, it has been owned by the same family. Looking for a place to try Japanese beer in Moscow? Come to any Lambic beer restaurant. We have many interesting varieties that will pleasantly surprise you!
24 March 2025
Summer lambics: refresh yourself with a fruity beer from Belgium
When the thermometer is high, nothing is as refreshing as a cold beer. Especially if it’s lambics — a traditional Belgian sour beer with natural juice, which not only gives a pleasant coolness, but also pleases with deep flavor. Why fruit beer saves you in the heat Light sourness, sparkling «character» and juicy fruit notes make lambics an ideal drink for summer. Unlike heavy ales or bitter IPAs, fruit beers are easy to drink, almost like lemonade, but with a distinctive beer depth. It stimulates the appetite, quenches thirst and gives a feeling of freshness thanks to the natural juices in the composition — cherry, raspberry, peach or other fruits and berries. What to choose The best option for hot weather — sour lambics, which do not leave an unpleasant feeling of lusciousness, like a sweeter beer or soda. For example, the classic cherry Kriek MAX. The bright flavor of ripe berries and pleasant sourness make it perfect for a hot day. «Kriek» is not too sweet, with a slight tartness and a long aftertaste. If you like softer, sweeter options, Lindemans Pecheresse is your choice. This peach lambic has a honeyed and fruity bouquet, a light sparkle and velvety texture, and a slight acidity and refreshing note in the finish. A variant for cider lovers, but it’s still a lambic — Lindemans Apple. The drink has a bright rich taste, which perfectly balances the sweetness of red and sourness of green apples, pleasant aroma and refreshing aftertaste. Perfect for a hot day! How to drink lambics in the heat For a beer to be truly refreshing, proper serving is important. Lambics should be: — Cool down to 6-8°C — this will reveal all the nuances of flavor, but will not lose the freshness.— Serve in tall glasses — the flavor will «play». If desired, you can add ice to the drink, but do not get carried away — there is a chance to «dilute» the deep flavor of Lambic. And it is better to just have to go to Lambic! In our beer restaurants — a large selection of varieties from Belgium and other countries of the world. Proper serving of drinks, delicious food, cozy atmosphere and excellent service are guaranteed!
21 June 2025