Kölsch is a traditional German beer type that originated in Cologne. It has a light body, crisp flavor, and a somewhat fruity aroma. Kölsch is usually made using a combination of pilsner and pale malts and fermented with a yeast strain that creates a clean and neutral taste profile. The beer is generally served in a tall, thin glass and is noted for its exquisite taste balance and smooth, easy-drinking profile.
This extract homebrew recipe should yield a tasty, well-balanced Kölsch that is true to type. The ultimate result will, of course, be determined by the quality of the ingredients, the brewing process, and the circumstances in which the beer is fermented and kept. However, with care and attention to detail, you should be able to make a delightful and refreshing Kölsch to share with friends and family.
Kölsch Ingredients:
- 6.6 lbs. light malt extract
- 8 oz. Carafoam malt
- 1 oz. Hallertauer hops (60 min boil)
- 1 oz. Hallertauer hops (5 min boil)
- White Labs WLP029 German Ale/Kölsch yeast
- 5 oz. priming sugar for bottling (if not kegging)
Brewing Instructions:
- Clean and sanitize all brewing equipment.
- In a large pot, bring 3 gallons of water to a boil.
- Turn off the heat and add light malt extract and Carafoam malt. Stir until dissolved.
- Turn the heat back on and bring wort to a boil.
- Add 1 oz. Hallertauer hops and boil for 60 minutes.
- Add 1 oz. Hallertauer hops and boil for 5 minutes.
- Cool wort to 70°F and transfer to a fermenter.
- Top up to 5 gallons with cool water.
- Pitch yeast and ferment at 68°F for 7-10 days.
- Transfer to a secondary fermenter for an additional 7-14 days.
- Prime with 5 oz. of priming sugar and bottle.
- Allow 2-3 weeks in the bottles for proper carbonation.
- Enjoy your drinking your Kölsch!
Estimated Beer Stats:
- Original Gravity: 1.046
- Final Gravity: 1.010
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 4.7%
- International Bitterness Units (IBU): 20
- SRM (Color): 4
The final beer should be light golden in color and clear and effervescent. The scent should be fresh and faintly flowery, with a fruity undertone. The beer should have a light, crisp body with a well-balanced bitterness and a dry finish on the tongue. The flavor should be light and refreshing, with a hint of fruitiness and malt sweetness. A well-crafted Kölsch should be a pleasant and easy-drinking beer that is ideal for sipping on a hot day.
Heinrich Reissdorf is a popular commercial option to try.
