Pilsner and Pilsen may sound similar, but there is a distinct difference between the two. Pilsner is a style of beer, while Pilsen refers to the city in the Czech Republic where the style originated.
The word “Pilsner” comes from the German word “Pilsen,” which means “from Pilsen.” This style of beer was first brewed in the city of Pilsen, located in what is now the Czech Republic. Pilsner beer was created in the mid-19th century by Bavarian brewer Josef Groll, who was invited to brew a new beer for the city of Pilsen.
Pilsner beer is known for its light golden color, crisp and clean taste, and a noticeable hop bitterness. It is typically brewed with pale malt and noble hops, which give it a balanced and refreshing flavor profile. Pilsners are typically well-carbonated and have a medium body.
The Czech version of Pilsner, also known as Czech Pilsner or Bohemian Pilsner, is the original and most traditional style of Pilsner. It is characterized by a slightly sweeter malt profile compared to other Pilsners, with a more pronounced hop bitterness. Czech Pilsners often have a more complex flavor profile, with hints of caramel, bread, and grassy or herbal notes from the hops.
Pilsner beers have gained immense popularity worldwide and are now brewed in many countries. However, not all beers labeled as “Pilsner” are true to the original Czech style. Many breweries have adapted the Pilsner style to suit their own preferences and regional tastes. This has led to variations in the flavor, ingredients, and brewing techniques used to create Pilsner-style beers.
When choosing a Pilsner, it's important to consider the origin and style of the beer. If you're looking for an authentic Czech Pilsner, seek out breweries that specialize in this style or beers that specifically state “Czech” or “Bohemian” Pilsner on the label. These beers will provide a more traditional and true-to-style experience.
While Pilsner and Pilsen may sound similar, they refer to different aspects of the beer world. Pilsner is a style of beer known for its light golden color, crisp taste, and hop bitterness, while Pilsen is the city in the Czech Republic where this style was born. The Czech version of Pilsner, also known as Czech or Bohemian Pilsner, is the original and most traditional style. However, variations of Pilsner can be found worldwide, so it's important to consider the origin and style when selecting a Pilsner beer.