Prague, the capital city of Czech Republic, is renowned for its rich beer culture. When visiting Prague, it’s essential to immerse yourself in the local beer scene and try some of the best brews this city has to offer. In this article, we will explore the various types of beer that are commonly served in Prague and the unique characteristics that make them special.
The Pilsner Urquell: The Pride of Prague
When talking about beer in Prague, it is impossible not to mention the Pilsner Urquell. This iconic lager was first brewed in 1842 in the city of Pilsen, located just a short distance from Prague. Pilsner Urquell is a golden-colored beer with a smooth and crisp taste that has won over beer enthusiasts around the world.
The Pilsner Urquell is known for its distinct hop bitterness and malty flavor, which comes from its high-quality Saaz hops and carefully selected barley malt. It is traditionally served unfiltered and unpasteurized, allowing you to experience its authentic taste.
- Key Features: Golden color, distinct hop bitterness, malty flavor
- Best Paired With: Traditional Czech dishes like goulash or roasted pork knuckle
Kozel: A Darker Delight
If you prefer darker beers, Kozel should be on your list. Kozel Dark is a popular Czech beer with a rich caramel flavor and a velvety smooth texture. This dark lager boasts a beautiful dark brown color with ruby undertones that entices your eyes before you even take your first sip.
Kozel Dark is brewed using roasted malt, which gives it its distinctive caramel and toffee notes. Despite its darker appearance, this beer remains relatively light and refreshing, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore beyond the traditional lagers.
- Key Features: Dark brown color, rich caramel flavor, smooth texture
- Best Paired With: Grilled meats or hearty stews
Budweiser Budvar: The Original Budweiser
Budweiser Budvar, not to be confused with the American brand of the same name, is another iconic Czech beer that deserves a spot on your Prague beer tour. This lager is brewed using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients, resulting in a beer that is both balanced and flavorful.
Budweiser Budvar has a pale golden color and a delicate hop aroma. Its taste is characterized by a harmonious balance between the malt sweetness and hop bitterness. This well-rounded lager has gained recognition worldwide for its exceptional quality.
- Key Features: Pale golden color, balanced taste with malt sweetness and hop bitterness
- Best Paired With: Grilled seafood or light salads
The Craft Beer Scene in Prague
In recent years, Prague has seen a significant rise in the popularity of craft breweries. These breweries offer a wide range of innovative and unique beers that cater to different tastes.
If you’re looking to explore the craft beer scene in Prague, be sure to visit one of the many brewpubs or beer bars scattered throughout the city. These establishments often have rotating taps featuring a variety of styles such as IPAs, stouts, wheat beers, and more.
Some Notable Craft Breweries in Prague:
- Prague Beer Museum: This brewpub boasts an extensive beer menu with over 30 taps, showcasing both Czech and international craft beers.
- Bad Flash Bar: Known for its experimental and unconventional beers, this bar offers a unique tasting experience for craft beer enthusiasts.
When visiting Prague, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the local beer culture. Whether you choose to indulge in traditional lagers like Pilsner Urquell and Kozel or venture into the world of craft beers, Prague has something to offer every beer lover. Cheers!