What is the history of Pilsner beer?
Pilsner began in 1842 in Plzen, Bohemia (today the Czech Republic), where Bavarian brewer Josef Groll brewed the first batch of what became Pilsner Urquell, a clear golden lager. It spread across Europe in the following decades and became the model for most of the world's lagers.
Free download
Home Bar Storage Chart (PDF): How long liqueurs, spirits, wine and mixers last, opened and unopened. 25 rows, each with its source.
Thank you
Your chart is ready
We use your email only for this download.Also free:
Milk and Dairy Storage Chart (PDF)Juice, Soda and Water Storage Chart (PDF)Coffee, Tea and Hot Drinks Storage Chart (PDF)Drink Strength, Calories and Units Cheat Sheet (PDF)Want the full pack? About 10 printable sheets: a larger chart for each drink type, a “has it gone off?” checklist, date labels, a party planner and an inventory sheet.
In this article
Where and when did pilsner start?
Pilsner is named after Plzen (Pilsen) in Bohemia. The city’s brewery hired a Bavarian brewer, Josef Groll, who brewed the first batch on 5 October 1842. It was a pale, clear lager, which stood out in a time when many beers were dark, cloudy and top-fermented.
Why was it new?
Several things came together: the soft water of Plzen, Saaz hops from nearby Zatec, pale Moravian malt, and Bavarian-style cool fermentation and lagering. Better kilning of malt helped produce a paler beer.
How did pilsner spread?
- The name “Pilsner Bier” was registered as a brand in 1859, and the Pilsner Urquell trademark followed in 1898 (Urquell means original source).
- Refrigeration in the late 1800s let brewers elsewhere make cool-fermented lager year-round.
What is the difference between Czech and German pilsner?
| Style | Typical character |
|---|---|
| Czech (Bohemian) pilsner | Bright gold, malty depth, moderate bitterness, Saaz hops |
| German pils | Lighter body, drier, more crisp bitterness |
| American pilsner | Often closer to German style; older recipes may use some corn or rice |
How strong is pilsner?
Modern pilsners are typically around 4.5 to 5 percent ABV, but check each label.
Is Pilsner Urquell still brewed in Plzen?
Yes. The brewery is still in Plzen. It is now owned by Asahi, which bought it in 2017. Many people also call any pale lager a pilsner today.
People also ask
Who invented pilsner beer?
Bavarian brewer Josef Groll brewed the first Pilsner Urquell batch in Plzen in 1842.
Why is it called pilsner?
It is named for the Bohemian city of Plzen (Pilsen), where it was first brewed.
How strong is pilsner?
Typically about 4.5 to 5 percent ABV; check the label.
About · How we verify this · Editorial policy · Corrections
What would help you most next?
One tap. Anonymous. It helps us decide what to build.
Thank you. The free charts above are yours to keep.
