The World Beer Competition held at the end of 2023 in San Francisco brought together a panel of esteemed beer experts to evaluate and determine the finest brews across a wide range of styles. While the Best In Show IPA has already been unveiled, today we will delve into the details of the Best In Show Lager for 2023, which was awarded to Pleasing Gene.
Pleasing Gene, despite being labeled a “German Pilsner,” is actually crafted in Greensboro, North Carolina by the talented artisans at Little Brother Brewing. With a crisp and complex flavor profile, this 4.4% patio pounder impressed the judges at the competition. Described as an impeccably crafted brew that offers a symphony of flavors with notes of honeysuckle leading to a crisp finish, Pleasing Gene truly embodies the Pilsner style.
The Pilsner style, originating in 1840s Bohemia, is characterized by a hoppy variation of pale lager. While the German style tends to have a more straw-like color and layers malty sweetness over a bitter base, Pleasing Gene stands out for its hop-forward and pleasing taste. Subtle hints of florality in the finish balance out the piney hops, creating a well-rounded and delightful drinking experience.
Availability and Distribution
Despite its accolades, Pleasing Gene is not widely available outside of Little Brother Brewing’s four tasting rooms in North Carolina. The brewery’s limited production capacity hinders national distribution, leaving beer enthusiasts longing for a taste of this award-winning lager. While the hope remains for broader availability in the future, the exclusivity adds to the appeal of enjoying a unique regional brew in its place of origin.
Celebrating Local Communities
Craft brewing thrives on celebrating local communities and creating distinctive flavors that reflect the essence of a region. While IPAs may lose their freshness when shipped nationally, lagers like Pleasing Gene are best enjoyed at the source. Little Brother Brewing embodies the essence of craft production in North Carolina, a region that has emerged as a hub of modern brewing. Making a pilgrimage to experience the local beer scene firsthand is a must for any beer enthusiast.
The Craft of Brewing
Crafting a remarkable IPA involves sourcing quality hops and skillfully blending flavors, but brewing a standout pilsner requires precision and expertise. Clean and crisp lagers like Pleasing Gene leave no room for flaws to hide, showcasing the brewer’s talent and dedication to the brewing process. Each sip of Pleasing Gene is a testament to the dedication and skill that goes into creating a truly exceptional beer.
Pleasing Gene’s recognition as the Best In Show Lager for 2023 is a testament to Little Brother Brewing’s commitment to quality and innovation in craft brewing. While its limited availability may pose a challenge for beer enthusiasts outside of North Carolina, the exclusivity adds to the allure of this award-winning brew. As the craft beer industry continues to evolve, Pleasing Gene stands out as a shining example of the artistry and craftsmanship that define exceptional lagers.