Schwifty Pils
Calusa Brewing

Reviewed from notes. Poured from a 16 oz. can into a J. Wakefield OG teku glass.

A: Hazy light gold, and forms a two-finger white head that eventually gives way to a ring of foam. A good amount of visible carbonation.

S: Fresh citrus zest and milder resinous hops over the pilsner malts. A very mild sulfur aroma from the pilsner malts, and mixes nicely with the light cracker sweetness. Some floral, herbal, and melon hops as well. Clean and fairly simple aroma. More hoppy maybe than a traditional Pils, but appealing enough for sure.

T: Lemon and citrus zest hops again, floral and earthy and mild resin and melon. Crisp cracker malts with modest undertones of pilsner malts. Nice yeast breadiness with mild esters. A clean fermentation here. Mild lemon rind bitterness in the lingering hang.

M: Light crisp body with a good amount of carbonation sensation. Low alcohol presence.

O: Quite enjoyable when you’re in the mood for a Pils, this seems more in the German style rather than Czech. The American hops lend more citrus (and a touch of melon) than expected, but not unwelcome. Really an enjoyable change of pace. Scores given are to style; I would estimate personal preference north of 3.75/5.

OF NOTE: The above review was for the first can I opened, and I felt like it roughly reflected the serving I had on-tap at the brewery. However, the other cans developed a very unpleasant, and quite strong, sulfurous aroma and flavor. I don't know if there was an oxidation issue (doesn't seem the right flavor) or a secondary fermentation (but no evidence of it on first tasting) that happened in the can. To their credit, Calusa made it up to me and mentioned they were already aware of the issue and were taking investigatory steps. I sincerely hope they get it figured out, because I'd revisit this one eagerly if it ever made a repeat appearance.