This German-born beer is good year-round, but summer is my favorite time to have some Kölsch: Light, crisp, with a hint of fruit from the yeast and a touch of bitterness from the hops to balance it all out. The delicate dance of flavor makes it an easy drinker but a difficult brew to get just right.
In Germany, this beer can only be called Kölsch if it actually comes from Köln, the literal meaning of the name. In Europe, the beer holds the status of PGI (protected geographical indication). (Other products, such as the beers and cheeses from Trappist monasteries, also have agreed-upon rules for production and labeling, but in the case of “Trappist,” it is not a particular style like Kölsch is.)
