Lakefront New Grist Pilsner

Pilsner is a pale, bottom-fermented lager, and this six-pack of cans comes from Massachusetts. Expect the style's usual profile: a clear straw-to-gold pour, a bready, lightly cracker-like malt base, and a floral, herbal or spicy hop note that sits behind a clean, dry finish. Bitterness in pilsners is typically moderate and crisp rather than resinous, and carbonation runs lively, which keeps the beer from feeling heavy. No ABV or IBU figure is listed for this product, so check the can for the exact numbers. Serve it cold, around 38 to 45°F, which keeps the carbonation sharp and the malt from turning sweet. A tall, narrow pilsner glass or a slim stange is the traditional choice: it shows off the color, holds the white head, and concentrates the hop aroma. A pint glass works fine, and pouring down the side and then straight in near the end builds a finger or two of foam that releases the hops. The cans are practical for a cooler or a day on the water, but pour the beer into a glass when you can, since aroma is a large part of this style. At the table, pilsner suits foods that benefit from a clean, bitter reset: grilled sausages and bratwurst, fried fish, fish tacos, roast chicken, soft pretzels, and salty snacks such as potato chips or salted nuts. Its carbonation also cuts through mild spice, so it holds up next to lightly seasoned Thai or Mexican dishes. Heavy, intensely hot or very rich foods are better matched with something bigger.