Grolsch Lager Review: A Refreshing Classic with a Twist

450ml Bottle of Grolsch Premium Pilsner Beer 4% ABV

Reviewed: 1st Feb 2024

Some beers just take you back, don’t they? For me, Grolsch is one of them. The moment I see that green swing-top bottle, I’m right back in the 80s, Bros on the radio, a bottle top in my laces, and that first crisp, refreshing sip of Dutch lager. But nostalgia aside, how does Grolsch hold up today in a world full of craft brews and modern lagers? Let’s find out.

Founded in Grolle in 1615, Grolsch Premium Pilsner is more than double the age of most other beers. Now brewed back in its historic home in Enschede, the Netherlands, and according to the brewer "Grolsch is 'double brewed for double the flavour'". 

They are keen to point out that they use two hops for bitterness and aroma, which they blend with two different types of malt so that they can deliver refreshment and flavour!

The bottle:

I honestly don't think that the bottle has changed one little bit from the bottle I swigged out of in the 80's. The tiny label has perhaps been updated, but the iconic embossed green glass bottle looks and feels exactly the same to me.

So, this Dutch brew with its distinctive swing-top bottle, is a familiar sight in many bars and refrigerators. But how does this classic lager hold up in today's diverse beer landscape? Let's crack open a bottle and see.

Appearance: 

Pours a clear, golden yellow with a decent white head that dissipates quickly. The iconic swing-top bottle adds a touch of vintage charm as I pour. It does just look like a typical European Lager Pilsner though, although I guess I really didn't expect anything different.

Aroma: 

It smells decent enough, it's light and clean, with notes of pilsner malt, grassy hops, bread, and just the subtle hint of honey, I've had this a number of times and never got that slight honey aroma before!. 

There's no overwhelming complexity here, again - it's pretty much smells like 99% of European lagers out there, but it's pleasant and refreshing.

Taste:

The first sip is crisp and clean, with a light sweetness balanced by a subtle bitterness from the hops. The malt character is present but not overpowering and I'm picking up a little bit of breadiness, allowing the hops to shine through, some delicate floral and citrus flavours with a touch of spice. Overall, it's a smooth and easy-drinking lager with a refreshing, slightly dry and mildly bitter finish.

In the mouth it feels light and bubbly, with a moderate carbonation that adds to the crispness. It's a clean and refreshing experience on the palate.

Overall:

I honestly don't know if I romanticised about drinking this lager a little as it didn't take me back to my early days of drinking. Grolsch Lager isn't a complex beer by any stretch of the imagination, but I think that's part of its charm. It's a classic pilsner style done right, offering a refreshing and easy-drinking experience. 

The swing-top bottle adds a touch of fun and tradition, making it a good choice for casual gatherings or a thirst-quenching solo session.

In conclusion then, Grolsch Lager is a solid choice for those looking for a refreshing and easy-drinking lager. It's not going to blow your mind with complexity, but it delivers a consistent and enjoyable experience at a fair price. So, if you're looking for a classic pilsner with a twist, give Grolsch a try. You might just find yourself reaching for another swing-top bottle.

Score: 8.5/10

Thanks for reading, enjoy your beers, cheers!