Sudwerk Brewing Company - The People’s Pilsner

Winner of multiple GABF medals including the gold medal for Bohemian Pilsner in both 2021 and 2022, The People’s Pilsner pours a bright golden color with good clarity and a robust cap of foam. Look for traditional noble hop aromas to offer grassy-herbal and spicy notes backed up by subtle but bright touches of citrus, all overlaid on a lightly malty bed of mild breadiness. That malty note forms a sturdy center on the palate with a tasty crackery impression and a pleasingly smooth roundness. The hops shoot through with lots of herbal spice and a dash of citrus zest, while the moderate bitterness easily keeps this pils dry all the way into the crisp finish that leaves us ready to down another sip immediately. This very food-friendly brew will pair nicely with fried chicken or other breaded dishes, as well as grilled sausages, pizzas, or your favorite burgers or sandwiches. Cheers!

Sudwerk was founded in Davis, CA in 1989 by Ron Broward and Dean Unger. Not only was it among the early entrants into America’s craft brewing renaissance, Sudwerk was at the forefront of craft lager production, focusing almost entirely on lager styles brewed in accordance with the German Reinheitsgebot beer purity law (which dates to the 16th century). Within just a few years, the brewery had grown significantly while developing much respect within the early craft beer scene.

Fast forward to 2013. The Sudwerk brand, which had never lost its quality or esteem in the industry, nevertheless found itself somewhat overlooked among all the flashy new breweries popping up within the explosively growing beer scene. Additionally, both Broward and Unger had recently passed away, and their families were looking to sell the brewery. At this point, Unger’s grandson, Trent Yackzan, and his friend, Ryan Fry, entered the picture, organizing with a group of investors to purchase the brewery and begin revitalizing the brand and tapping into Sudwerk’s latent potential. The focus on craft lagers was maintained, but the new-look Sudwerk began striking out into more adventurous lager territory while also expanding Sudwerk’s barrel-aging program.

Over the years, Sudwerk has been recognized with a multitude of awards, including 18 medals at the Great American Beer Festival, and they were awarded GABF Brewery of the Year for their production size in 2021. They also maintain a partnership with UC Davis, home of one of the country’s most respected brewing schools. For more info about Sudwerk, visit them at www.sudwerkbrew.com.