What Is a Kölsch Beer and Why Should You Be Drinking One?

The crisp drinkability and remarkable balance of malt and fruit flavors of Kölsch make it a refreshing beer style. What precisely gives Kölsch beer its distinct flavor, though?

The type of yeast used during fermentation determines whether the majority of beers are classified as ales or lagers. Ales are technically made with top-fermenting yeasts at higher temperatures, which produces IPAs and other beers with a stronger, fruitier flavor. Pilsners and other crisper, more malt-forward beers are produced by using bottom-fermenting yeasts in lagers, which are made at lower temperatures. However, Kölsch beer uses a hybrid brewing method that blurs these distinctions.

Kölsch beer, which originated in Cologne, Germany, is made by fermenting ale yeast and then finishing at cold temperatures, much like lager. The end effect is a style that combines some of the best traits from both categories. Kölsch is typically light and drinkable, with a crisper, cleaner finish that you would anticipate from a pale lager and a hint of fruitiness and spice similar to an ale. These characteristics make Kölsch a very drinkable beer style that is appropriate for any situation and retains some integrity.

The famous Heinrich Reissdorf Brewery in the center of Cologne makes the Reissdorf Kölsch, which is a great place to start learning about Kölsch beer. One of the world's best-selling Kölsch beers, their signature brew is made in the old-fashioned way. Take the Gaffel Brewery, which has been producing great beer since 1908, as well. A highlight of their lineup is their traditional Kölsch.

The German Kölsch style has, of course, also been adapted by American craft brewers. Try the Clearwater Kölsch from Captain Lawrence Brewery for a more conventional approach. This beer, which is brewed in New York State using local, fresh water, has a traditional Kölsch flavor with well-balanced citrus and malt notes. Try the California Kolsch from the venerable brewery Ballast Point if you are on the West Coast. It is so light and drinkable that the brand used to just call it a pale ale.

For a Kölsch that is a little more far out, consider trying the Honey Kölsch from Rogue Ales. The brewery from Oregon gives the style a distinctive twist by using honey collected from bees on their farms. As a result, the beer has the drinkability of a traditional Kölsch with the addition of sweet honey, toast, and wildflower flavors.

This approachable, mid-ABV beer style is sure to please any crowd, regardless of whether you prefer a traditional Kölsch or one with a contemporary twist.