German Pils

A light-bodied, highly-attenuated, gold-colored, bottom-fermented bitter German beer showing excellent head retention and an elegant, floral hop aroma.

Prominent to intense floral, herbal, or spicy German hop aroma from noble varieties. Low to moderate grainy Pilsner malt sweetness. Clean lager fermentation, possible faint sulfur. Very hop-forward.

Straw to light gold, 2-4 SRM. Brilliant and very clear. White head with dense, long-lasting retention.

Moderate German Pilsner malt with a crisp, clean bitterness from noble hops. Spicy, floral hop flavor. Very dry, bitter finish. Clean and refreshing with assertive German hops.

Light to medium-light body with high carbonation. Crisp, dry, and spritzy. No astringency.

Developed in the late 19th century as German brewers adapted Bohemian Pilsner brewing techniques. The harder water of northern Germany, particularly Prussia, encouraged more hop-forward interpretations. Became the dominant lager style of northern Germany, distinct from the maltier Bavarian traditions.

What is German Pils beer?

German Pils (BJCP 5A) — a crisp, bitter, floral German pilsner with excellent hop aroma. Style guide and specs.

What is the ABV of German Pils?

German Pils has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.4-5.2%.

How bitter is German Pils beer?

German Pils measures 22-40 IBU (International Bitterness Units).

What are some examples of German Pils beers?

Bitburger Premium Pils, Warsteiner Premium, Jever Pilsener, Veltins Pilsener, Trumer Pils