Rotbier

Tasting Notes

Red hued, toasted bread, floral, earthy

Description & History

Brewed in collaboration with our good friends at Kulshan Brewing! This historic Nuremberg-style lager pours a brilliant, crystal-clear ruby-red, a visual feast that hints at the rich malt character within. On the palate, it delivers a smooth and elegant balance of toasted bread, biscuit, and a subtle sweetness, all while maintaining the incredibly clean and crisp finish that is the hallmark of our well-crafted lagers. It's a beer that honors centuries-old traditions, bringing a complex yet highly drinkable piece of brewing history to your glass.

The history of Rotbier is deeply rooted in the city of Nuremberg, Germany, where it was the dominant beer style during the Middle Ages. Its origins can be traced back to local brewing ordinances in the 14th century that, much like the later Bavarian Reinheitsgebot, restricted brewers to using only barley malt. This was in part to preserve wheat and rye for bread-making and to ensure the beer was of a certain quality. At its height in the late 16th century, Nuremberg was a hub for this style, boasting more breweries dedicated to Rotbier than any other type of beer. However, with the rise of modern lagers and new brewing techniques, the style slowly faded from prominence. The style was largely revived in the 1980s by the Hausbrauerei Altstadthof in Nuremberg, sparking a renewed interest in this historical beer.

Food Pairing

Rotbier pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats like pork or chicken, as the beer's toasted notes complement the savory, caramelized flavors. The clean finish also makes it an excellent match for classic German dishes such as sausage with sauerkraut or pretzels with mustard.