This refreshing German Pils is a vibrant collaboration between Against The Grain and Mikkeller, showcasing a base of German Pilsner and Munich malts. The sensory profile is a citrus powerhouse driven by an abundance of blood orange zest and juice, which is expertly complemented by the tropical and floral notes of Citra and Amarillo hops. A foundation of Columbus and Czech Saaz provides a firm, spicy bitterness that balances the fruit's natural acidity. It pours with a unique sunset-gold hue and a crisp, clean lager finish. The palate is dominated by bright, zesty citrus while maintaining the dry, snappy character of a traditional lager.
Appearance.4-6 SRM (deep gold with a distinct orange/pinkish tint). Slight haze from the addition of fruit juice and zest. Large, frothy, off-white head with good retention and delicate lacing.
Aroma.High intensity. Bold blood orange notes, reminiscent of raspberry and tart citrus, dominate. Secondary aromas of grapefruit and tropical fruit from Citra and Amarillo hops are present. Low grainy-sweet and slightly bready malt character from the Munich and Pilsner malts. Clean fermentation profile with a light herbal, spicy undertone from Czech Saaz.
Taste.Initial burst of tart blood orange and citrus zest, followed quickly by a grainy, cracker-like malt backbone. Hop flavors are floral and tropical. Moderate bitterness from Columbus provides a firm structure that cuts through the fruit acidity. The finish is very dry and crisp with a lingering citrus peel and spicy hop aftertaste. Clean and highly refreshing.
Mouthfeel.Medium-light body with high carbonation that creates a prickly, effervescent sensation. Crisp and refreshing without any harshness. Very slight acidity from the fruit juice adds to the snappy finish. No perceptible alcohol warmth.