Time and time again I’ve been disappointed by breweries that tout their beverage as “German” style. More often than not they ultimately try to appeal to the new era palate by tossing in some Cascade or Citra hops and kicking it up a notch.

If I buy something to experience a little bit of “Germany”, that’s exactly what I expect. The same holds true for a pale ale, or a stout, or an IPA, or a hefeweizen – give me what I’m buying.

So I was absolutely floored by this Hoyne Brewing Helios Dortmunder Golden Lager when they lived up to the label. Hitting every base when it came to meeting my expectations.

Starting with the subtle sweet and malty scent that you could tell right off the bat they were using the right ingredients, brewed in the right way.

Next, the flavours paid homage to what a German style golden lager was all about. It has a perfect balance of malts and hops, with a mild bitter finish. This beer has plenty of body, slightly heavier than a basic lager, but in a really, really, really good way.

Top marks to Hoyne Brewing for coming up with a lager that, if I didn’t know any better, I would think it was brewed in the Rhine.

Only available in 650ml bombers, Helios Dortmunder Lager should definitely be put on your BC lager list.