Beer Review – Pilsner Urquell

• Name: Pilsner Urquell
• Brewery: Plzeňský Prazdroj
• Style: Pilsner
• Origin: Pilsen, Czech Republic
• ABV: 4.4%

On a recent trip to my local Total Wine and More, I was perusing the beer aisle when a rep asked me if I would like to try a sample. On offer was a shot of Pilsner Urquell, a beer I was assured was the very first pilsner brewed on earth. Brewed in Pilsen, Czech Republic since 1842, Pilsner Urquell definitely had history in its side, but how does it taste?

Pilsner Urquell pours a transparent, straw-colored consistency. It is moderately carbonated and built a surprisingly small head for a beer of its style. Aroma wise, Pilsner Urquell is fairly subdued. Notes of malt are the most prominent, but it definitely smells as though it will be a very light beer.

Related: St Arnold 5 O’Clock Pils Review

It has a typically light mouthfeel, replicating exactly what I would have expected of a Pilsner. That said, it has a much more developed flavor profile than a lot of its mainstream, American cousins. The malty flavors are well balanced with the slight taste of hops. If you’re used to drinking something like a Miller Lite, Pilsner Urquell will rock your world.

In recent weeks, I have tried a handful of pilsner beers. This is easily one of the better ones. I thoroughly enjoyed Saint Arnold’s Summer Pils, which is on about even keel with this one. While they are both pilsner style, the Saint Arnold offering is very thin, just deep enough in flavor and incredibly refreshing – you can tell it was brewed for a Texan summer. On the other hand, Pilsner Urquell is a little heavier and has a deeper flavor. While it would also be great in the summer, I can’t help but think the stylistic differences represent the respective climates of the beers’ origins.

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TL;DR

Pilsner Urquell is a well balanced beer. It’s delicious and I would highly recommend trying it out. For pilsner fans, you will find an awesome brew that can contend with the best of them. For others, you will find a solid pilsner option for when it takes your fancy.

Rating 9/10

Question of the Day

What is your favorite pilsner style beer? Comment below and let me know!

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Learn more about Pilsner Urquell on its’ website, Beer Advocate and Untappd.