Thomaston Lager

Thomaston Lager by Clocktown Brewing Co. is being evaluated as a German Pils (2021 BJCP Guidelines Category 5D).

The aroma is a harmonious blend of dough-like pilsner malt and floral hops that have a presence of honeysuckle and dandelion. While there is a subtle sulfur note from this lager’s fermentation, the hops whet the appetite with their bright, fresh character. This beer is a brilliantly clear pale blonde with a small white head on top that falls a bit quickly for the style.

This beer’s flavor strikes a good balance between cracker-like malt, floral hop flavor and crisp hop bitterness. All three elements work well together with a slight shift of balance towards hop flavor. The beer is appropriately dry, resulting in a clean finish that has a touch of hop flavor that lingers. The sulfur presence in the aroma is also found in the flavor but it is not strong and does not detract from the good aspects of this beer much. A medium-light body, dry finish and moderately high carbonation help to give this beer the perception of great drinkability.

Overall, a very nice pils that has all the crucial components and has them balanced within the beer’s style. Connoisseurs who understand European pilsner will appreciate how well crafted this lager is.