The Czech Pilsner: The Beer That Defined a Nation

A Revolution in Brewing

Few beers have had as profound an impact on brewing as the Czech Pilsner. Known for its brilliant golden hue, crisp body, and balanced bitterness, this style reshaped the beer world when it was first brewed in the 19th century. Today, it remains one of the most widely consumed and influential beer styles, inspiring countless interpretations across the globe.

But where did it all begin? And why did this particular style revolutionise brewing?

The Birth of the Pilsner

In the early 19th century, beer in Bohemia (modern-day Czechia) was inconsistent in quality. Murky, dark, and prone to spoilage, it was often far from the refreshing beverage we associate with lager today.

In the town of Plzeň (Pilsen), dissatisfaction reached a breaking point. In 1838, local brewers even dumped barrels of poor-quality beer in protest. Recognising the need for change, the townspeople founded the Pilsner Urquell Brewery in 1839 and hired a Bavarian brewmaster, Josef Groll, to craft a beer unlike anything before.

What Made Pilsner Different?

Groll's approach was revolutionary. Using newly developed pale malts, he produced a lighter-coloured beer than the darker ales and lagers of the time. He also took advantage of the region’s soft water, which enhanced the beer’s smooth character. Most crucially, he introduced bottom fermentation - a process using strains that ferment at the bottom of the fermentation vessel, rather than the top. These strains also ferment at lower temperatures (around 10 degrees Celsius) rather than at room temperature, resulting in a cleaner and crisper beer.

The final touch was Saaz hops, a noble hop variety native to the region, which imparted floral, spicy, and slightly herbal aromas while balancing the beer’s malt sweetness. The result? A bright golden lager with a refreshing bitterness, something completely unheard of at the time.

The first batch was brewed on 5 October 1842, and when it was unveiled to the public, it was an instant success. Soon, the entire beer industry took notice.

The Global Spread of Pilsner

Word of Pilsner Urquell spread quickly. The beer’s clear golden appearance was mesmerising, and its crisp, refreshing qualities made it exceptionally drinkable. Soon, breweries across Europe began imitating the style, giving rise to what we now call Pilsner-style lagers.

Germany adopted the style, with cities like Munich and Dortmund putting their own spin on it. Even in America, as immigrants from Central Europe arrived, they brought Pilsner brewing techniques with them, leading to the birth of iconic American lagers.

Today, Czech Pilsners remain a gold standard in brewing. They are typically characterised by their malty backbone, moderate bitterness, and floral hop character, all hallmarks of the original Pilsner Urquell.

A Modern Take: Lemondrop

At Tūn Brewing, we have a deep respect for brewing traditions, but we also love to experiment. That’s why our latest release, Lemondrop Pilsner, takes inspiration from the classic Czech Pilsner while adding a unique twist.

Brewed with Weyermman®finest Bohemian Pilsner malt for authenticity, Lemondrop is then dry-hopped with Lemondrop and Saphir hops - a process that intensifies the beer’s citrus aroma while maintaining the crisp, balanced drinkability of a traditional Czech Pilsner.

What Does Dry-Hopping Mean?

Unlike traditional hopping, where hops are added during the boil for bitterness, dry-hopping involves adding hops after fermentation to maximise aroma and flavour without adding significant bitterness. This technique enhances the beer’s fresh, citrus profile, making it a perfect summer lager.

Where to Find Lemondrop

Lemondrop Pilsner is a refreshing take on the classic style, maintaining its crisp drinkability while introducing a zesty and subtle fruit aroma.

Want to taste history with a twist? You can find Lemondrop Pilsner soon at select venues and on our website.

The Pilsner Legacy Lives On

The influence of the Czech Pilsner is undeniable. It reshaped the beer world in the 19th century, and today, its legacy lives on in both traditional and innovative forms. Whether you enjoy a classic Czech Pilsner or a modern, dry-hopped interpretation like Lemondrop Pilsner, every sip is a tribute to the beer that changed brewing forever.

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