Before we get started, you should know that if you want to get technical, to be the beer technically must be made within 50 kilometers of the city where it originated: Cologne (Köln in German). Any beer outside of that Protected Geographical Indication under EU law can’t be . Still, you’ll find brewers making Kölsch -style beers just about everywhere.
And if you’re a fan of refreshing, thirst-quenching and you’ve never or Kölsch -style beer...
what are you waiting for? Kölsch beers are often labeled as ales, but they share attributes of both the ale and the lager. It’s first warm-fermented the way an ale is before being cold-conditioned in the lager style. Regardless, if you’re a fan of a pilsner or lager, you’re probably going to enjoy the lightly fruity, malty, soft, and clean flavors of the Kölsch.
It doesn’t have all the crisp, floral hoppy flavors of a pilsner. But that just makes it a great change of pace. To help you on your Kölsch and Kölsch-style beer journey, we found eight of the best, most refreshing, flavorful examples.
Keep scrolling to see them all. 8. Reissdorf Kölsch 5.
2% If you’re going to try Kölsch beers, you absolutely should try at least one of the authentic brews from Cologne. Reissdorf Kölsch is a top-fermented, cold matured ale with a fruity, dry, easy-drinking flavor profile. The brewery has been making this iconic beer since 1894.
A bready, yeasty, fruity, lemon zest, and floral, spicy hopped nose greets you bef.