Howdy Beer Western Pilsner

Want the short answer? A pilsner is a lager beer on the hoppier end of the spectrum. If we're getting a little more technical, pilsners have extra Saaz (aka "noble") hops that were added in response to beer spoilage back in Pilsen in the before times. But that doesn't matter to you now as a pilsner sipper. All you need to know is that these extra-crisp, souped up lagers can be some of the most delicious beers you'll ever experience, especially on a hot summer day (or any time really).

Expect a typical pilsner to contain about 4% to 5% ABV (alcohol by volume).

A classic German-style pilsner is straw to pale in color with a balanced sweetness in both smell and taste. Hop bitterness (specifically noble hops) tends to be medium to high.

While you might associate German lagers with big old crockery steins, a pilsner glass is actually a fairly delicate thing. They tend to be smaller than your standard 16 ounce shaker pint, and they are tapered, slender and tall. The narrower glass is meant to show off the color and carbonation of the beer, while a slightly broader mouth helps maintain the foamy head.