Inspired by Ron’s post about Pilsners, I decided to pick up a couple and try them out. First up is a seasonal beer from Tröegs Brewing Company (which is fast becoming one of my favorite brewers): Sunshine Pils.

I do not generally indulge in pilsners. Whether it’s a prejudice left over from too many bland, megabrewed beers, or a former friend’s obnoxious insistence that Pilsner Urquell is the “best beer in the world,” or simply that I’ve found I like English styles and so stick to them, I just don’t have that many craft brewed pilsners. So, while in my semi-local retailer, I decided to pick some up.

Sunshine Pils is a seasonal beer, only available from about May until August. The label describes it thusly:

Tröegs Sunshine Pils is hand-crafted in our brewery using only malted barley, noble hops, and bottom fermenting yeast. This pilsner delivers a refreshing hop bitterness and zesty, vibrant finish.

The first thing you notice is the color. Pilsners are supposed to be light-colored, but this one was lighter than I would have expected. It may be lighter than a Coors Light, along the lines of Corona Extra. It makes a nice, big, foamy head and laces nicely on the glass.

It is hoppier than an American pilsner, but probably about right for the German definition. Its flavor is surprisingly robust, but only compared to its mass-produced brethren. The finish is nice and clean. Too clean, I thought at first, but a few minutes after a good swallow I can definitely feel the zest they’re talking about. This is definitely a beer that you want more of as you drink it.

I found it quite refreshing. The brewers recommend it with salads, shellfish, and mild fish filets. I thought it went rather well with the kielbasa and sauerkraut I had for dinner. Definitely a good summer beer.

5.3% ABV. I’ll give this one a solid three out of four. Recommended.