Pils and pilsner are often used interchangeably to refer to the same type of beer. However, there are some subtle differences between the two terms.
1. Origin and History:
– Pilsner: The term “pilsner” is derived from the city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic, where the beer style originated in the mid-19th century. It was first brewed by Josef Groll, a Bavarian brewer, who introduced the use of pale malts and bottom-fermenting yeast to create a clear, golden lager.
– Pils: “Pils” is a shortened version of the word “pilsner” and is often used as a slang term for the same style of beer. It is commonly used in informal settings or by beer enthusiasts.
2. Ingredients:
– Pilsner: Traditional pilsners are brewed using pale malts, which give the beer a light golden color. They are typically hopped with noble hop varieties, such as Saaz, which impart a mild, floral aroma and a balanced bitterness.
– Pils: The ingredients used in pils are essentially the same as those in pilsner. The term “pils” is more of a casual reference and does not imply any specific variation in the brewing process or ingredients.
3. Brewing Process:
– Pilsner: Pilsners are typically brewed using a bottom-fermenting yeast strain, known as Saccharomyces pastorianus. This type of yeast ferments at cooler temperatures (around 10-12°C or 50-54°F) and settles at the bottom of the fermentation vessel. The result is a clean, crisp beer with a smooth finish.
– Pils: The brewing process for pils is the same as that for pilsners. The term “pils” does not indicate any specific brewing techniques or variations.
4. Flavor Profile:
– Pilsner: Traditional pilsners have a delicate balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness. They are known for their clean, crisp taste, with a slightly grainy malt character and a subtle, floral hop aroma. The bitterness is typically moderate, providing a refreshing and dry finish.
– Pils: Pils share the same flavor profile as pilsners. The term “pils” is used to describe the style in a more informal and relaxed manner.
The terms “pilsner” and “pils” are often used interchangeably to refer to the same style of beer. Both terms describe a pale lager beer that originated in Pilsen, Czech Republic, and is brewed using pale malts, noble hops, and bottom-fermenting yeast. The flavor profile of pilsners and pils is characterized by a balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, resulting in a clean and crisp taste.