Zatec Brewery
Zatec, Czech Republic
Imported by: Merchant du Vin
Tukwila, WA
Available: nationwide
The Zatec region is the home of the hop variety known in English as Saaz. Brewing records in the town of Zatec go back over 1,000 years.
ABV: 4.6
ABW: 3.66
Color: 4
Bitterness: 24
Gravity: 1046
A full antique gold under a rocky white head. The nose is full of buttered bread and fresh hay, but the famed Zatec (Saaz) hop takes a back seat. The hops step forward on the palate, gently balancing the sweetness of the malt. The finish is long and smooth. In a beer garden I could drink a lot of this—it has a pleasant structure and direct, well-defined flavors—classic Czech lager. No “best by” date, so look before you leap, but at least it’s in a protective brown bottle. Very nice with a lobster roll.
A classic Czech lager brewed in a former castle with natural deep cellars. It’s pale bronze with a creamy head and toasted malt aroma with spicy hops. Rich biscuity malt and bitter hop resins fill the mouth with a touch of citrus fruit. The finish is dry, quenching with continuing rich malt and a building bitterness. It’s a clean, refreshing and exceptionally well-made Czech lager, hoppy and bitter for the style.
Internationally recognized brewer and expert on traditional beer, Garrett Oliver is the brewmaster of the Brooklyn Brewery and the author of The Brewmaster's Table.
Roger Protz is the author of Complete Guide to World Beer and 300 Beers to Try Before You Die. He is a respected beer authority and editor of the CAMRA Good Beer Guide.
