Pilsner beer originated in the city of Pilsen, which is located in what is now the Czech Republic. Therefore, the original and authentic pilsner beer is Czech. The name itself, “Pilsner,” is derived from the city’s name.
In the 19th century, the beer brewed in Pilsen underwent a significant transformation. The local breweries were facing challenges with the quality and consistency of their beer, leading them to take action. In 1842, the citizens of Pilsen founded the Pilsner Urquell brewery with the aim of producing a beer that was both refreshing and high in quality.
The creation of the Pilsner Urquell brewery marked a turning point in the history of beer. The brewers employed several new techniques and innovations to produce a lighter, clearer, and more flavorful beer. They used pale malt and Saaz hops, which resulted in a golden color and distinctive hop aroma. The use of bottom-fermenting yeast, known as lager yeast, further contributed to the characteristic taste of Pilsner beer.
This Czech-style pilsner quickly gained popularity and became a sensation not only in Pilsen but also throughout Europe. The success of the Pilsner Urquell brewery led to the spread of the pilsner style, with many breweries in Germany and other countries adopting the brewing techniques developed in Pilsen.
While Germany has a strong brewing tradition and is known for its beer, it is important to note that the pilsner style was born in Pilsen, Czech Republic. German breweries later embraced this style and made their own versions of pilsner. These German pilsners, often referred to as “German-style pilsners,” may have slight variations in flavor and hop character compared to the original Czech pilsners.
It is worth mentioning that the popularity of pilsner spread globally, and today, variations of this style can be found in breweries worldwide. However, when referring to the authentic and traditional pilsner, it is the Czech version that holds the original claim.
In my personal experience, I have had the opportunity to visit Pilsen and taste the pilsner beer at the Pilsner Urquell brewery. The beer I had there had a wonderful balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness, with a distinct floral aroma from the Saaz hops. It was a truly memorable experience to enjoy a pilsner in its birthplace, surrounded by the rich brewing history of Pilsen.
Pilsner beer is originally Czech, as it was first brewed in the city of Pilsen. While Germany and other countries have also embraced and brewed their own versions of pilsner, the authentic and traditional pilsner style belongs to the Czech Republic.