Description
The Kölsch PGI is a beer produced with water, malt, yeast and hop.
Production Area
The production area of the Kölsch PGI is in Köln (Cologne), in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia.
Production Method
The production of this beer includes a series of stages that start from the malt obtainment. Once it is shredded, is moderately mixed with warm water. The successive stage includes the addition of hop and the heating of the mixture obtained. After cooling, special yeasts are added that trigger the fermentation that lends the beer its particular taste.
Appearance and Flavour
The Kölsch PGI has a pale colour and its flavour is slightly fruity and weakly bitter.
History
The Kölsch PGI takes its name from the term Kölsch, used for the first time in 1918 to describe a type of beer produced since 1906. In the first half of the 20th century it was known only locally, but during the 1960s it acquired its fame and popularity in the Cologne beer market. In 1948 the Kölsch producers united in the so-called "Kölsch convention" and formalised the production style of this beer.
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 Kölsch PGI is best enjoyed cool. It is ideal with Cologne's typical cuisine, such as the typical dish Halver Hahn - half a sandwich of rye bread with a slice of spicy Dutch cheese, served with onion and mustard.
Marketing
The product is sold as Kölsch PGI. The various brewing companies produce several variants of Kölsch PGI: Früh Kölsch, Dom Kölsch, Küppers Kölsch, Gaffel Kölsch, Garde Kölsch, Gilden Kölsch, Hellers Brauhaus, Weissbrau Zu Köln Kölsch, Rheinische Bürgerbräu Bürger Kölsch, Reissdorf Kölsch, Sester Kölsch, Sion Kölsch, and Shiner Summer Stock Kölsch Bier (American version of the Kölsch).
Distinctive Features
The Kölsch PGI is a beer that develops 4.8% ABV on average and is always served in a tall and narrow glass called Stange (pole).
