I have become a big fan of German-style beers, and Kolsch is at the top of the list. I was so happy to get the opportunity to have a slow pour King Maker Kolsch from the collaboration of Lua Brewing and Fair State Brewing Cooperative!
The slow pour technique gives that extra creamy head on top, which adds to the experience! The bready maltiness upfront with a hint of sweetness finishes out nicely balanced with the Hallertau hops. King Maker Kolsch is a sessionable beer at 5% ABV that has a crisp body.
I love that the glasses are traditional Kolsch glassware called a Stange. The customary way in Germany is you would receive your Stange with a coaster. The coaster serves multiple purposes; one is for tracking how many drinks you have had. A server called a Kobes would carry around twelve of these glasses in what is called a Kranz. When your glass is empty, the server will deliver another beer, and the server will add a mark to your coaster. When it is time to call it a day, put your coaster on top of your Stange. How cool is that!
This Kolsch is easily in my top three! I high recommend visiting Lua Brewing in Des Moines. They have incredible beer and food, along with an excellent taproom atmosphere.
Cheers!