A new beer from Sierra Nevada, the Premium PILS Lager, is making its debut this week across select markets in the United States. This pilsner marks a departure from the brewery’s usual hop-forward offerings and has been over a year in development. The team behind it aimed to create an elevated pilsner that could set a new standard for the style in America. With a focus on brewing history and quality ingredients, this crisp, soft lager boasts Weihenstephaner yeast, Saphir hops, and Pilsner malts with a hint of Carapils malt, all at 4.7% alcohol by volume. Initially available on draft in 30 markets, the Premium PILS is considered seasonal but may transition to a year-round offering in the future.

The Making of Sierra Nevada's Elevated Pilsner

This section explores the meticulous process behind creating Sierra Nevada's Premium PILS Lager. A dedicated team spent more than a year perfecting the recipe, focusing on key elements such as water chemistry, yeast selection, and hop varieties. Their goal was to craft a premium pilsner that stood out in the American market. By incorporating Weihenstephaner yeast and the German-bred Saphir hop variety, they achieved a balance of softness and crispness with just a subtle hoppiness. The brewers emphasized quality throughout the development process, ensuring that the final product reflected Sierra Nevada's reputation for excellence.

In-depth research into brewing history guided the creation of Sierra Nevada's new pilsner. Brian Grossman, Seth Hewitt, Matt Ruzich, and their team delved into the origins of pilsners, particularly focusing on the importance of water chemistry, which plays a crucial role in determining the flavor profile. They selected Weihenstephaner yeast for its ability to enhance the beer's clean and refreshing character. Additionally, the use of Saphir hops added a unique aroma and flavor dimension. Alongside traditional Pilsner malts, a touch of Carapils malt contributed to the beer's smooth texture. These carefully chosen ingredients resulted in a lager that is both approachable and sophisticated, appealing to a wide range of beer enthusiasts.

Premium PILS: Market Launch and Future Plans

Currently, Sierra Nevada's Premium PILS Lager is being introduced on draft in 30 select markets across the U.S. This strategic rollout aims to gauge consumer response before potentially expanding nationwide. The beer's initial availability in cities like Atlanta, Chicago, Portland, and Las Vegas reflects the brewery's commitment to reaching diverse audiences. Although classified as a seasonal offering at present, discussions are underway about transitioning it to a year-round staple. Fans can anticipate a distinctive packaging option arriving in late-summer 2025, further enhancing the appeal of this premium product.

As Sierra Nevada ventures into the pilsner category with its Premium PILS Lager, the company is keenly observing how the beer resonates with drinkers in various regions. The decision to launch in 30 distinct markets allows for valuable feedback and insights regarding preferences and demand. In Atlanta, for example, an exclusive event at The Ramspeck showcased the beer to media and industry professionals, generating buzz and excitement. While currently labeled as seasonal, there is strong potential for Premium PILS to become a permanent fixture in Sierra Nevada's lineup due to its high-quality craftsmanship and favorable reception. Looking ahead, plans include unveiling a special package design in 2025, adding another layer of intrigue to this already impressive release. This move underscores Sierra Nevada's dedication to innovation and maintaining its position as a leader in the craft beer industry.