The Bottom Line
I have long said that Blue Paddle is the best American Pilsner on the market. Not having tried every example, I suppose that I should temper this statement to "the best one I've had." Nevertheless, it's a good one.
Pros
- Good flavor for a Pilsner
Cons
- Still weaker in flavor than many European Pilsners
Description
- One of the best American Pilsners
- Captures the style's subtlety
- Nice flavor
Guide Review - New Belgium Brewing Company's Blue Paddle Pilsner
Pilsner is a tough style to brew well. The subtlety that makes it so intriguing is often interpreted as thin by many breweries. I have yet to have an American version that can stand up to the standards set by some of the masterful brews of Czech and Germany but Blue Paddle is a stand out Pilsner.
Blue Paddle is dead on for the style in appearance - pale straw with a short, white head that quilts quite nicely as it goes down the glass. The nose is subtle with slight graininess and a hint of hops. The flavor is dominated by hops with a light malty depth that sets it apart from so many other American lagers. The mouth-feel is a very effervescent with the typical lager smack and clean finish.
