Kihei Kölsch

Vexillology is the study of the history, symbolism and design of flags, and is generally used as a tongue-twisting catch-all phrase for general interest in flags.

After watching a witty and engaging TED talk by radio personality Roman Mars, I have had my first brush with vexillological exploration.

I remember first recognizing the beauty of flags early on in my life during the 1998 World Cup (Vive le France!). I would sit in front of our family TV and stare in wonder at both “the beautiful game” unspooling in front of me, as well as the pageantry of the teams singing their (usually) spirited national anthems behind their country’s flag.

Almost always, the flags were crisply organized, eye-catching and engaging, which are part of the five main tenets of flag design, according to the North American Vexillological Association:

1. Keep it simple.
2. Use meaningful symbolism.
3. Use 2-3 basic colors.
4. No lettering or seals.
5. Be distinctive (or be related).

Maui Brewing Company’s Kihei Kölsch can artwork certainly follows these tenets, as it employs Germany’s powerful and universally recognizable flag to lend the brew some gravitas and authenticity.

The beer itself is also an elegant interpretation of the classic German style, with just the right hint of sweetness balancing the light malt base.