Beer Review: Schönramer Grünhopfen Fresh Hopped German Pils
Schönramer Grünhopfen Fresh Hopped German Pils is a seasonal, unfiltered lager that highlights the intense, varying aroma profile of freshly harvested hops, contrasting with the clarity of a traditional Pils.
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Grünhopfen Pils often surprises by pouring a clouded, pale golden straw color, which is uncommon for a genuine German Pils but consistent with its advertising as an unfiltered beer. It typically features a perfect, frothy white head with sticky, persistent lacing. While some find the body slightly dull, it has a healthy, appetizing presence.
Aroma
The fresh hops provide a distinctive green noble hop aroma right on the nose, described as grassy and herbal rather than classic grassiness. It’s accompanied by notes of fresh dough, lemon, and a grain-forward profile, with hints of buttery, floral, and nutty nuances.
Taste
Initially surprising with a fuller body than a standard Pils, the beer delivers a significant peppery, hoppy bitterness that lasts well into the finish. It combines this biting edge with a balanced bready sweetness and an orange-based citrus character that adds zest and pith. Look for subtle flavors of honey, pastry dough, and distant pear, with a harmonic malt presence.
Mouthfeel
This unfiltered Pils offers a light to medium body, strong carbonation, and visible effervescence. It balances smoothness with coarseness, accentuating the hop character. The texture is wet and refreshing, finishing semi-dry and drinkable, with no overpowering syrupy character.
Grünhopfen Pils is considered an oddball among Pilsners for its green edge and unfiltered approach, but it is generally well-regarded. It successfully melds a strong, fresh-hop identity with a classic, snappy German style and is best enjoyed fresh, perhaps with light vegetarian dishes or as an aperitif.
Available at SF Tequila Shop
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