Pilsner Urquell

Pilsner Urquell Six Pack

The Original Pilsner. 

In the annals of brewing history, few beers hold the same legendary status as Pilsner Urquell. It is more than just a brand or a beer; it is the original, the very beer that gave birth to the pale lager style that now dominates the world. Brewed in the city of Plzeň (Pilsen) in the Czech Republic since 1842, this beer was a revolutionary departure from the dark, cloudy ales of its time. It was the first clear, golden, and brilliantly carbonated beer ever created, a true landmark in brewing innovation.

The secret to its enduring quality lies in an uncompromising dedication to tradition. Pilsner Urquell is still brewed with simple, foundational ingredients: soft Plzeň water, native Saaz hops, and Bohemian malted barley. It undergoes a unique triple-decoction mashing process and is open-fermented in large lagering tanks. This meticulous process creates a beer of perfect balance and drinkability.

Pilsner Urquell pours a radiant, deep gold with a thick, meringue-like head. The aroma is a glorious harmony of sweet, bready malt and a vibrant, floral spiciness from the Saaz hops. On the palate, it is a celebration of subtlety and complexity. A gentle sweetness is met by a crisp, firm bitterness that is both refreshing and invigorating. The finish is clean and dry, leaving a lingering, satisfying taste of grassiness. It's a beer that is both a tribute to its past and a timeless example of a style that is as relevant today as it was nearly two centuries ago.

Yes, it’s now owned by brewing conglomerate Asahi Group, but as far as we know and can tell, all brewing is still done in Pilsen, and they are providing more financial support, than anything. A friend at the brewery told me recently, “they leave us alone”. I’m guessing they don’t want to meddle with this perfection.