How does US Pils differ from German Pils?

The distinction that US Pils has adjuncts is a significant characteristic in differentiating it from German Pils. US Pilsners often incorporate adjuncts like corn or rice, which can lighten the body and crispness of the beer while contributing to a clean finish. This use of adjuncts is a reflection of brewing practices in the United States that aim for a different flavor profile compared to the traditional malt-forward approach seen in German Pils.

German Pils, on the other hand, typically showcases a malt base consisting primarily of German malt, which provides a rich, bready backbone without the influence of adjuncts. This foundational difference leads to a more pronounced malt character in German Pils, while US Pils tends to lean towards a lighter and more refreshing profile, allowing the hop character to come through distinctly.

While aspects like darkness, adjunct utilization, and hop content are important to beer styles, the defining feature of US Pils incorporating adjuncts to create a specific mouthfeel and flavor balance is a key element that sets it apart from German Pils.