Description
The Hofer Bier PGI is exclusively produced with water, malt, hop and yeast.
Production Area
The production area of the Hofer Bier PGI is in the area of the city of Hof, in the federal state of Bavaria.
Production Method
The preparation of the Hofer Bier PGI consists in mixing the malt - obtained from barley of various harvests - with water, to which hop is added later on. The mixture obtained is brought to a boil, and then cooled off, and finally yeast is added, which provokes the fermentation process. This process, according to the duration, continues for several degrees, and allows the production of different varieties of beer.
Appearance and Flavour
The Hofer Bier PGI, according to the variety, can have a colour ranging between pale and dark, and a varying bitterness.
History
The Hofer Bier PGI is rooted in the long beer brewing tradition of the city of Hof, which dates back to 1319, the year in which the Hof inhabitants were granted the privilege of producing this valued beverage. The experts of this profession learned everything about beer brewing without following any regulation. The local history of Hof is full of anecdotes linked to this activity. Documents from the 16th century can be mentioned as evidence of how far back the fame of this beer dates. From these documents it can be deduced how the inhabitants of the city of Kulmbach were great appreciators of the Hof beer, so much so that they preferred it to others from other cities.
Gastronomy
In order to maintain its characteristics unaltered, the beer should be kept in a cool yet not cold place, away from direct light sources, which modify the aroma and flavour, and at a constant temperature. It is recommended to cool it in the refrigerator or, however, to keep it at lower temperatures only before serving it. Once opened, it is recommendable to consume the beer within a short period of time, since contact with the air causes oxidation. The Hofer Bier PGI is best consumed cool. The gastronomic matches recommended are just as manifold as are the varieties of the beer, but undoubtedly the Doppelbock is perfect served with dishes made with average-ripe cheeses and with sweets made with chocolate.
Marketing
The product is sold as Hofer Bier PGI, in the following varieties: Schankbier, Eisbier, Hell/Lager, Pils, Export, Dunkel, Kellerbier, Märzen, Bock hell, Bock dunkel, Doppelbock hell, Doppelbock dunkel, Weizenschankbier, Kristallweizen, Weizenbier hell, Weizenbier dunkel and Weizenbock. It is marketed in glass bottles.
Distinctive Features
The long beer brewing tradition in the area of Hof has allowed obtaining a highly appreciated product with a wide range of commercialised varieties, with alcohol content between 2.7 and 8.0% ABV.
