In 1841, a man named Anton Dreher changed Austrian (and global) beer history with his new beer, the “Klein-Schwechater Lagerbier.” It was a huge hit and quickly took off, taking the name of the city it was brewed in— Vienna. ⛪️
Who was Anton Dreher?
But why was it so revolutionary? Well up until 1841, Austrian beer had a pretty poor reputation. Before inheriting his father’s brewery, however, Dreher set out to learn more about brewing techniques across Europe. Embarking on a Grand Tour he visited places like Leipzig, Strasburg, Cologne, and Antwerp, as well as Great Britain. Working his way through Europe in breweries, Dreher spied on new techniques and even siphoned off wort samples for analysis. Most importantly, in Britain he learned techniques of temperature control that weren’t widespread in Europe and would allow bottom-fermented lagers to be brewed year round, even in the height of summer.
What is a Vienna Lager?
As such, Dreher’s Klein-Schwechater Lagerbier was nothing new per se but rather an amalgamation of cutting edge ( for the 19th century) techniques in brewing, fusing lightly kilned malts, Bohemian Saaz hops and lagering to create a uniquely malty, spicy and refreshing amber beer. Yet the Vienna Lager would become hugely popular and go on to have a huge international influence, being a direct ancestor of the first Marzen as well as the likes of Modelo, Dos Equis and Sam Adam’s Boston Lager. 🌾 🌱 🍺
Livingtstone Vienna Lager : beer review
This version is a tribute to the style from Livingston Brewing. Known for their unique historical and world beers, this one is perhaps the most “normal” beer I’ve had from Livingstone! It’s got all of that rich malt character with notes of caramel, hazelnuts, toasted bread and floral, spicy hops throughout, with a smooth yet light and easy-drinking body. 🌰 🍞 🍺
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.
Laisser un commentaire