Pils and pilsner are often used interchangeably to refer to the same type of beer, but technically there can be some differences between the two. Let me explain.
Pils is a shortened form of the word pilsner, which is a type of pale lager beer. Pilsner beer originated in the city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic. It was first brewed by Bavarian brewer Josef Groll in the 19th century. The name “pilsner” comes from the city's German name, “Plzeň.”
Pilsner is characterized by its pale golden color, clear appearance, and crisp, refreshing taste. It is known for its balanced flavors, with a moderate hop bitterness and a light malt sweetness. Pilsner is usually highly carbonated and has a medium body.
Now, to answer your question, pils and pilsner can be considered the same thing in most cases. However, there are some subtle differences that can arise depending on the region or brewery. Some breweries may use the term “pils” to refer to their version of a pilsner-style beer, while others may use “pilsner” as the specific style name.
In general, both pils and pilsner beers adhere to the same brewing techniques and ingredients. They are typically brewed with pale malts, which give them their light color, and noble hops, which contribute to their characteristic hop aroma and flavor. The use of bottom-fermenting yeast and lagering (cold storage) also play a significant role in the production of pilsner beers.
I have had the opportunity to taste various pilsners and pils beers from different breweries around the world. While there may be slight differences in flavor profiles and brewing techniques, the overall experience is quite similar. Each brewery puts its own twist on the style, resulting in subtle variations in taste and aroma.
To summarize, pils and pilsner are generally used interchangeably to describe the same type of beer. Both refer to a pale lager beer with a crisp, refreshing taste and a balanced combination of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. However, there may be slight variations in flavor and brewing techniques depending on the region or brewery. In the end, it all comes down to personal preference and the specific beer you choose to enjoy.