Kalmer (Kölsch)
Kalmer than you are… This light-bodied Kölsch style ale features fresh additions of lemon and cool-as-a-cucumber juices, liquid leggiero accompanied by notes of honeydew and citrus. The brew abides.
Reviews are done by our Sensory Specialist Travis Houston, a Certified Cicerone and FoBAB judge.
Malts: 2-Row, Pilsner, Vienna, Wheat
Hops: Magnum, Crystal
This brew is the latest addition to our seasonal can lineup. What does Kalmer bring to the table compared to our other seasonal offerings?
2018 was a year where craft beer really re-discovered the classic styles, and 2019 is no different. Kölsch is a perfect example of this, and Kalmer adds another light, low-hopped beer to our can lineup. With the additions of cucumber and lemon, this brew is the epitome of a classic style with a craft twist.
What are the notable characteristics of this beer?
Kalmer is light and crisp, with low bitterness. The cucumber and lemon add bright, refreshing fruit notes that compliment the malt perfectly.
What makes you want to drink this beer?
It’s incredibly refreshing but still loaded with flavor. This beer pairs well with a ton of different foods but also holds up on its own.
What are some other beers in this style that you really enjoy?
This is a massively underrepresented style in the US, so the best place to try them is in Cologne, Germany, where it originated. Goose Island brews a great Kölsch called Summertime.
Appearance: Light yellow with great clarity and a fluffy, white head.
Aroma: Cucumber and lemon dominate the aroma, with a hint of crackery malt.
Taste: Low bitterness, very slightly sweet, with a crisp, clean finish.
Mouthfeel: Light bodied with a crisp finish.
Overall: Light, crisp, and refreshing, with bright fruit notes. Extremely drinkable, yet still flavorful.
What foods would pair well with Kalmer?
This beer would go great with a light, citrusy salad, but it would also pair well with a burger.
Ideal glassware for Kalmer?
A standard pint glass.