As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze a wide variety of beers, including both hoppy lagers and pilsners. When it comes to the question of which is hoppy, lager or pilsner, the answer is not quite black and white.
To begin with, it's important to understand that pilsner is actually a type of lager. It was named after the Czech city Plzen, where it was first brewed in the mid-19th century. Pilsners are known for their pale golden color, crisp and clean flavors, and a distinct hoppy character. So, in a sense, all pilsners can be categorized as lagers, but not all lagers can be classified as pilsners.
When it comes to the hoppy flavor profile, pilsners tend to have a more pronounced hop presence compared to other lagers. This is due to the specific brewing techniques and ingredients used in creating a pilsner. The hops used in pilsners often impart a spicy, floral, or herbal character, which adds complexity to the beer. This is in contrast to other lagers, which may have a milder hop profile or focus more on malt flavors.
The choice of yeast also plays a role in the hoppy nature of a beer. Pilsners traditionally use a specific type of lager yeast known as the Czech Saaz yeast. This yeast strain enhances the hop flavors and aromas, contributing to the overall hoppy character of the beer. On the other hand, other lagers may use different yeast strains that produce a cleaner and more neutral flavor profile, allowing other ingredients to take the spotlight.
In my personal experience, I have found that pilsners can vary in terms of their hop intensity. Some pilsners can have a more subtle hop character, while others can be quite hop-forward. This can be influenced by factors such as the hop varieties used, the brewing process, and the brewer's preferences. It's important to note that hoppy flavors can also be influenced by factors such as hop additions during brewing and dry-hopping techniques.
To summarize, pilsners are a type of lager that tends to have a more hop-forward flavor profile compared to other lagers. They often exhibit spicy, floral, or herbal hop flavors, thanks to the specific brewing techniques and yeast used. However, it's essential to remember that not all lagers are hoppy, as there are numerous styles within the lager category that may have different flavor profiles. Ultimately, the level of hoppy character in a beer depends on the specific brewing process and the brewer's intentions.