Köster is a traditional German Kölsch (or lagered ale) from Brasserie Herman hopped with the most German of all the noble hops, Hallertau Mittelfrüh. 🇩🇪 🍺 🌱
Now right from the get go, there are some absolutely fantastic malty aromas that instantly conjure up a fresh baked farmhouse loaf with a lightly caramelised crust. There’s also a little touch of honey and some delicate grassiness from the hops, but they don’t detract at all from the focus on the grains.
On the palate it’s just straight liquid bread and honey, going down super smoothly with a soft, pillowy and full mouthfeel while managing to remain light and refreshing throughout. Finally, a spritz of citrus and a dash of grassy bitterness in the finish wrap things up nicely. Absolutely excellent stuff from a brewery that only gets better each time I try them! 👏🏻 🤤 🥖
A Taste of the Rhineland: Kölsch The Kölsch style emerged north of the Rhineland in Germany. Kölsch is a top-fermented, pale ale originating from Cologne (Köln in German), and its roots can be traced back to the 19th century. The brewers of Cologne rebelled against the traditional ale fermentation methods common in the region, opting instead for lager-like processes. The result? A crisp, clear, and clean beer with a subtle hop character, such as the one offered by Köster.
More on German Beer
To fully appreciate the delight that is Köster, one must first delve into the rich tapestry of German beer history. The story of German beer is one that spans centuries and is intertwined with the cultural, geographic, and climatic diversity of the country. Germany, often hailed as a beer paradise, is celebrated for its precise brewing techniques and a myriad of beer styles that have evolved over time.
Bavarian Brilliance: The Birth of Lager
In southern Germany, particularly in Bavaria, the development of lager beer played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s beer landscape. In the early 16th century, Bavarian brewers began storing beer in cool cellars, which enabled them to produce a cleaner, crisper brew with a longer shelf life. This method, known as lagering, eventually gave birth to the iconic German lager styles we know today, such as Helles and Dunkel. These beers are characterized by their malty sweetness, balanced by a subtle hop bitterness, creating a harmonious and quaffable brew.
From the Baltic to the Alps: Regional Specialties
Germany’s regional diversity has given rise to an astounding array of beer styles. From the dark and robust Schwarzbier of Thuringia to the wheaty and aromatic Hefeweizen of Bavaria, each region has contributed its unique brew to the national portfolio. These styles reflect not only the ingredients readily available in different parts of Germany but also the brewing traditions and preferences of the local populace.
So, as you savor your Köster, you’re not just enjoying a delicious beer; you’re also sipping on a piece of Germany’s fascinating beer heritage. From the precise lagering techniques of Bavaria to the crisp, refreshing Kölsch of the Rhineland, German beer styles continue to be a testament to the country’s dedication to brewing excellence.
Originally from England, Mike Davis came to Quebec ten years ago to study history. During this time he fell in love with the microbreweries of Quebec, which reminded him of English pubs. Now, he holds a Ph.D in History from McGill University, but works in the beer world as the Brand Ambassador for Microbrasserie 4 Origines.
