Summer 2025 - Eraclea Pilsner
Hanabi Lager Co.

Poured into a Stone Gargoyle flute. Pours a light to medium golden amber with a fine, two finger white head with great retention and solid lacing. Aroma of grainy pilsner malt, fresh cracked grain, green tea and a light floral element. Flavor is grainy pilsner malt, cracked barley, green tea, a hint of mint and light grassy and floral hops in the finish, with the bitterness slowly building after the taste. Medium bodied with moderate creaminess and nice mouth feel. An unexpected find in So. Cal. from this small, lager oriented brewery. The price point is high, but the reviews are encouraging and the brewery shows its interest in artisanal local grains and hops, so gave it try. Glad I did. Pilsners aren't one of my go-to styles anymore because I prefer other hop profiles than the traditional noble continental strains. But this one has a beautiful grain depth that tastes like fresh barley and a light touch with the hops. Great malt body with fine mouth feel. Nicely presents the Eraclea barley from a small area in Italy. A bit light in color density but lovely, long lasting head. Well done.