Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Test 2025 - Free Beer Server Practice Questions and Study Guide

A pilsner is characterized primarily by its light, crisp profile combined with a noticeable hop bitterness and a pale golden color. This style originated in the Czech Republic and has since influenced many other pale lagers worldwide.

The distinctive hop bitterness in a pilsner stems from the use of noble hops, which adds to its refreshing quality without overwhelming the palate. The pale golden color is a result of using pale malts, which contributes to its overall lightness and drinkability.

Pilsners are typically brewed using a lagering process at lower temperatures, which helps to create a clean and smooth finish, making them an ideal choice for those who enjoy a refreshing beer without excessive complexity. This popular style stands apart from darker, heavier beers that feature rich malts and higher alcohol content, as well as from sour beers known for their tartness and fruity characteristics, or spiced beers that incorporate additional ingredients to create unique flavors.