Samuel Adams Noble Pils

Brewery: The Boston Beer Company
Style: Pilsner
Location: Boston, MA
Brewery Website
Rating: B

I was out for dinner recently and as our waiter was reading the specials I was surprised to hear when he announced that the Sam Adams seasonal on tap was the Noble Pils. I'm glad to see that Sam Adams has decided to mix things up a bit and offer a pilsner as their spring seasonal instead of their White Ale. The Sam Adams Noble Pils pours a golden yellow with a faint hint of amber and a creamy white head. I was able to pick up fruity notes and a hint of sweetness on the nose, but the beer was served a bit too cold to pick up all the aroma fully.

The Noble Pils has lots of fruity hops up front, with bitter hops that develop over time. There is also a sweet malt character. Caramel, almonds and salt are detectable as supporting flavors. There is a crisp fizziness that gives way to a creamy mouthfeel. The Noble Pils finishes with bitter hops as well as bready notes. There is a lot of family resemblance compared to the Sam Adams Boston Lager, no doubt attributable in part to the Hallertau and Tettnang hops they share in common. In fact, I would describe the Noble Pils as a slightly lighter-bodied Boston Lager with an extra kick of both fruity and bitter hops. I'm very glad to see this addition to the Samuel Adams seasonal lineup as this is a nice tasty beer. This beer would be a good introduction to hops for someone who enjoys the Sam Boston Lager.