Klisch Pilsner

A very clean, crisp lager that deftly straddles the line between German- and Czech-style pilsners. The prodigious, creamy-white head, pale-yellow color and crystal clarity all speak of a masterfully crafted brew. Lightly spicy, perfumy hops dominate the nose, while faint cracker-like malt notes linger underneath. Pete appreciated the light peach and pear notes in the aroma, while Lee noted some hints of cereal grain. Soft, bready malt flavors were a little higher than expected for the style but were kept mostly in check by resinous, spicy Noble hop flavors. Additional layers of hop bitterness and a light mineral backing lent to the overall complexity. Tom was especially impressed with the beer’s overall creaminess, but Rick felt that creaminess was more apropos of a Munich helles than a pilsner. The judges agreed that a more generous hand with the bittering and aroma hops would lend needed character and improve this beer. Yet another well-crafted offering from Lakefront Brewing and the Klisch brothers, this beer has a deservedly large and rather dedicated regional following. This is the ideal beer for cruising Lake Michigan on a summery afternoon.