Overview for the Dortmunder Export Lager

Sometimes referred to as a “Dortmunder export,” the European-Style Export has the malt-forward flavor and sweetness of a German-style Helles, but the bitter base of a German-style Pilsener. This lager is all about balance, with medium hop character and firm but low malt sweetness. Look for toasted malt flavors and spicy floral hop aromas. It was originally brewed by Dortmunder Union in Dortmund, Germany, in 1873.

Style Expectations

Balance and smoothness are the hallmarks of this style. It has the malt profile of a Helles, the hop character of a Pils, and is slightly stronger than both.

Appearance

Light gold to deep gold, clear with a persistent white head.

Aroma

Low to medium noble (German or Czech) hop aroma. Moderate Pils malt aroma; can be grainy to somewhat sweet. May have an initial sulfury aroma (from water and/or yeast) and a low background note of DMS (from Pils malt). No diacetyl.

Flavor

Neither Pils malt nor noble hops dominate, but both are in good balance with a touch of malty sweetness, providing a smooth yet crisply refreshing beer. Balance continues through the finish and the hop bitterness lingers in aftertaste (although some examples may finish slightly sweet). Clean, no fruity esters, no diacetyl. Some mineral character might be noted from the water, although it usually does not come across as an overt minerally flavor.

Mouthfeel

Medium body, medium carbonation.

Reviews

Dortmunder Gold Lager

Dortmunder Export Lager  •  Great Lakes Brewing Co.

Dortmunder Gold Lager, a German-style Dortmunder Export Lager by Great Lakes Brewing Co. is light, clean, and oh so flavorful with its balance of hops and malt. Read More

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