In the world of brewing, there is often confusion surrounding the terms “Pilsen malt” and “Pilsner malt.” While they may sound similar, they actually refer to two different things. Allow me, as an expert sommelier and brewer, to clarify the differences between these two types of malt.
Pilsen Malt:
Pilsen malt, also known as Pilsner malt in some countries, is a type of base malt that is commonly used in brewing. It is named after the city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic, where the famous Pilsner beer style originated. Pilsen malt is made from barley that has been kilned at a relatively low temperature, resulting in a pale and light-colored malt. It is typically used as the foundation for lighter beer styles, such as Pilsners, lagers, and pale ales.
Pilsner Malt:
On the other hand, Pilsner malt refers specifically to a malt that is used in the brewing of Pilsner-style beers. It is often made from the same type of barley as Pilsen malt, but the key difference lies in its kilning process. Pilsner malt is kilned at a slightly higher temperature than Pilsen malt, which imparts a slightly richer and more pronounced flavor. This malt is typically used in the production of classic Pilsner beers, which have a crisp and clean taste with a delicate hop character.
To summarize the differences between Pilsen malt and Pilsner malt:
1. Origin and Naming: Pilsen malt is named after the city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic, while Pilsner malt is specifically used in brewing Pilsner-style beers.
2. Color: Pilsen malt is pale and light in color, while Pilsner malt tends to have a slightly richer hue.
3. Flavor: Pilsen malt has a mild and neutral flavor, making it suitable as a base malt for a wide range of beer styles. Pilsner malt, on the other hand, has a slightly richer and more pronounced flavor, which complements the hop character in Pilsner-style beers.
4. Usage: Pilsen malt can be used as a base malt in various beer styles, while Pilsner malt is predominantly used in the brewing of Pilsner-style beers.
In my personal experiences as a brewer, I have found that the choice between using Pilsen malt or Pilsner malt depends on the desired flavor profile of the beer being brewed. If I am aiming for a lighter and more neutral base, I opt for Pilsen malt. However, if I want to enhance the malt character and create a more traditional Pilsner beer, I choose Pilsner malt.
To summarize, the main difference between Pilsen malt and Pilsner malt lies in their kilning process, resulting in variations in color and flavor. Both types of malt have their own unique characteristics and are used in different beer styles. Understanding these differences allows brewers to make informed decisions when selecting the appropriate malt for their brewing endeavors.