1. Gaffel Kolsch Beer
Gaffel Kolsch has an alcohol content of 4.8% and an International Bitterness Units (IBU) of 25, indicating a moderate bitterness. It hails from Germany and is brewed in the Cologne region. Kölsch is a local craft beer produced in Cologne, Germany, classified as a light ale.
While lagers became popular across Europe, breweries in the Cologne region aimed to create beers with a lager-like taste. Thus, despite being an ale, Kolsch typically contains pale barley and mild hops used in lager production.
Abroad, it’s often referred to as a hybrid ale or German ale. Authentic Kolsch must be brewed in the Cologne region and is regulated under the Kölsch Convention to ensure consistent quality and flavor.
The Kolsch Convention mandates that all breweries ferment their beer at the top of the fermentation tank. While this method is similar to ales, Kölsch is matured to a point close to fermentation, then filtered for a bright color.
Gaffel Kolsch boasts over 700 years of history, using organic barley, premium hops, and local water to produce high-quality beer. It holds the highest market share among Kölsch beers.
2. Gaffel Kolsch Story
1) Privatbrauerei Gaffelbecker
This brewery is based in Cologne, Germany. It’s a member of the Cologne Brewers’ Association and has the right to brew Kölsch beer by signing the Kölsch Convention, with its most famous brand being Gaffel Kölsch.
Gaffel Kolsch traces its roots back to Cologne Gaffeln, a political organization of guilds and merchants in Cologne in 1396. “Gaffel” referred to a term for a two-pronged skewer brought by Cologne merchants from Venice in the 11th century. The Gaffeln gained control of the city and established the first democratic constitution, forming the association.
The Gaffel brewery was opened in 1822 and was later acquired by the Becker brothers in 1908. To honor the association that passed the democratic constitution, it was renamed to In der Gaffel.
Today, the brewery is still operated by the Becker family, supplying to over 3000 pubs and restaurants. Gaffel holds around 30% market share in the catering industry.
2) Tasting Notes
The foam retention is excellent, which is pleasing for someone who appreciates foam. Upon smelling, notes of hops, herbs, and malt are evident. While there’s a hint of bitterness, it’s not overwhelming.
It gives a similar sensation to lagers but with milder flavors that gently envelop the palate. The light sweetness of grains and the richness of malt are quite pronounced. The dry finish makes it highly drinkable, and it seems ideal for pairing with food. It feels like it would complement meals and snacks alike.
When it’s hard to choose between ale and lager, a beer with a balance between the two could be a great option.
3) Product Information
Product Name: Gaffel Kolsch
Type: Beer
Origin: Germany
Manufacturer: Privatbrauerei Gaffelbecker & Co
Ingredients: Purified Water, Barley Malt, Hop Extract, Yeast
Volume and Alcohol: 500ml, 4.8%
3. Overall Review
In conclusion, when torn between ale and lager, Gaffel Kölsch seems to be the best choice. It’s livelier than a Helles and milder in bitterness compared to a Pilsner. It holds a subtle charm.
The smoothness of the drink makes it easy to enjoy, and I found myself finishing the glass in no time. I definitely intend to repurchase. While I’ve tried various beers before, this one seems to suit my taste well. Plus, learning about the Kölsch style while enjoying this beer adds to the satisfaction of the experience. It was indeed a satisfying drink.