Shiner Kolsch
The kolsch has a special place in my heart — my father-in-law brewed a great tasting one for the day I married his daughter. Refreshing, clean and refined, the beer was ideal for the occasion and quite a warm late May weekend. I’ve had many examples of the style since, few matching the admittedly high standards of my memory.
Shiner Kolsch (4.9% ABV, 17 IBU) is another in a long line of challengers to that cherished beer. And like all the rest, it can’t live up to the lofty expectations of such a momentous day. It does, however, present a great drinking example of the style, one with a light hop bitterness that not only tantalizes, but reinvigorates the palate.
Appearance
Shiner Kolsch pours golden in color with a short-lived cap of white foam.
Aroma
Crackers, biscuity malt, grain, hint of honey and a light, peppery hop presence all mingle teasingly in the soft aroma.
Taste
Light bodied and with a mildly active carbonation, the beer drinks smoothly before ending with a slightly drying finish. Overall, Shiner Kolsch is a pretty darn good interpretation of the style. Biscuity malts, a touch of caramel and honey mingle with grain, hints of grass and light peppery hop notes. Despite the beer’s rather mellow character, it’s still quite refreshing.
Overall
I really like this beer. It’s light. It’s fun and refreshes wonderfully. I’d personally like it to be a bit crisper in terms of mouthfeel — perhaps not as soft as it comes across currently. Aside from that, I can see many a bottle of Shiner Kolsch disappearing from my fridge as the months continue to warm.
Rating: 3.75/5
This is a review of a promotional sample.
