The Four Essentials

The Four Essentials by Pontoon Brewing was judged as a Kölsch (BJCP sub-style 5B). It poured a mostly clear straw hue into the glass, forming a thick white head with moderate retention. The aroma was dominated by pilsner and/or other pale lager malts, followed immediately by bittering hops. The flavor profile also featured a smooth pleasant blend of crackery and grainy malt notes, and the same noble hop esters sensed in the aroma. The mouthfeel showcased the attraction and high drinkability of this excellent version of its style including a light body, crispness throughout the taste, enough distinctive malt flavor on the palate to balance and complement the restrained hop bitterness, relatively high carbonation, and no warmth or astringency. In a nutshell, this well-crafted beer is both refreshing and tasty, especially on a hot summer afternoon.