Time for a little history lesson (it'll be fun, I promise!): on Oct. 4, 1842, the first pilsner was born in the town of Pilsen, Czech Republic. That seminal pilsner we speak of is, of course, Pilsner Urquell ($8 for 6), whose name literally means "the pilsner from the original source."
Since then, imitators have been brewing up beers in this frothy, balanced, and eminently refreshing style in full force. While they do say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, I, like many, hold a soft spot in my heart for the original. So when we cracked open a few bottles for an officewide taste test, I was only slightly surprised at the general outcry of praise for the Bohemian brew.
When I busted out a few bottles for a taste test, collective oohs and aahs were heard, with comments like, "This is my go-to beer at most bars!" and even a proclamation from one colleague that it is her favorite pilsner, hands down. So I cracked open a bottle, poured it into a glass, and marveled at its generous foamy head, golden-wheat hue, and hop-forward aroma.
Sure enough, the frothy brew wasn't overhyped. Sip by crisp and refreshing sip I quickly drained my glass, and despite the early afternoon hours, I craved more. A perfect transitional beverage, this light-bodied brew is thirst-quenching enough to satisfy on a scorching Indian Summer afternoon but would be at home paired with
