Judge’s Review: 95 Rating – Putzig Pils by Moniker Brewery

German Leichtbier | Limited Release | USA

By Nelson Crowle

Judges Rating: 95.00
Aroma: 23.00
Appearance: 5.00
Flavor: 39.00
Mouthfeel: 9.00
Overall Impression: 19.00

Putzig Pils by Moniker Brewery was evaluated as category 5A German Leichtbier, per the 2021 BJCP Guidelines. The beer pours with a big, white, poofy head of tiny bubbles, which is persistent. The beer color is light gold, and it is nearly clear, with just a hint of haze. It is very effervescent with bubbles continuing to rise. The initial aroma is of light bready graininess with a moderate hop nose that is both herbal and perfumy/floral. The flavor starts off with a moderate hop presence that is green, leafy and floral and ends with a light but firm bitterness that lingers and brings out a light lemon note in the finish. The medium-light body is held up with light grainy malt, and it is crisp without any hint of alcohol. As the beer warms, there is more of a pleasant herbal hop note that adds dimension. The hop character (both bittering and flavor) is spot-on for the style. This beer would pair nicely with bratwurst and sauerkraut with some spicy mustard, as it would reset your senses and prepare you for the next bite.