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BJCP 2015 Guideline

Pale Bitter European beer Kölsch

BJCP 5B

BJCP 2015 5B Kölsch example
5B - Kölsch

 

Overall Impression

A clean, crisp, delicately-balanced beer usually with a very subtle fruit and hop character. Subdued maltiness throughout leads into a pleasantly well-attenuated and refreshing finish. Freshness makes a huge difference with this beer, as the delicate character can fade quickly with age. Brilliant clarity is characteristic.

Comments

Characterized in Germany as a top-fermented, lagered beer. Each Köln brewery produces a beer of different character, and each interprets the Kölsch Konvention slightly differently. Allow for a range of variation within the style when judging. Note that drier versions may seem hoppier or more bitter than the IBU specifications might suggest. Due to its delicate flavor profile, Kölsch tends to have a relatively short shelf-life; older examples and imports can easily show some oxidation defects. Served in Köln in a tall, narrow 200ml glass called a Stange.

Commercial Examples

Früh Kölsch, Gaffel Kölsch, Mühlen Kölsch, Reissdorf Kölsch, Sion Kölsch, Sünner Kölsch

There are more details available on the BJCP website. Click below to view the complete style.

View Style on BJCP Website

VITAL

  • OG:  1044 - 1050
  • FG:  1007 - 1011
  • ABV: 4.4 - 5.2
  • IBU: 18 - 30
  • SRM: 3.5 - 5
BJCP 2015 5B - Kölsch Commercial Example
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