Master Brewer Edition - #100 - Skyrise - July 2026
Skyrise: A Soaring Pilsner with German Hops by Christina Stoll
The Birth of an Idea: Why a Dry-Hopped Pilsner?
There are beers you just drink. And then there are beers like Skyrise – beers that tell a story. As a convinced Pilsner lover, I have always appreciated the lean, unadorned, and bitter character of this classic beer style. But with the emergence of the craft beer movement in Germany a few years ago, a new world opened up: the world of dry-hopped Pilsners.
During my studies, I had the fortune of developing my own recipe with a group of fellow students. We chose precisely this style – a Pilsner that is more than just a thirst quencher. More hops, more aroma, more character. And I have revived exactly this inspiration for the new round of BMEs (Bavarian Master Brewer Exam Beers).
The Star of the Recipe: Mandarina Bavaria
The choice of hops is crucial for a hopped Pilsner. Although there is a huge international variety, I opted for a German aroma hop: Mandarina Bavaria. Why? Because it brings exactly what a summer Pilsner needs:
Intense citrus notes – clearly leaning towards mandarin and orange, as the name suggests.
A light rosemary and pepper note, which develops during dry-hopping and gives the beer an unmistakable kick.
The result? A Pilsner that starts fresh and lively but convinces with surprising depth – perfect for anyone who wants to challenge their palate.
Skyrise: A Name That Says It All
How do you describe a Pilsner that is elegant, yet refined with extra hops? Terms like "towering" and "exalted" immediately came to mind. And with a bit of creativity, the name was born: Skyrise.
Because this beer is like a magical ascent – it combines tradition and magic into a crystal-clear, lively experience. The name stands for the soaring aromatics that make this Pilsner so special.
The Perfect Enjoyment: When and How to Drink Skyrise?
Dry-hopped beers like Skyrise pair particularly well with:
✅ Spicy or slightly hot dishes – the bitterness of the Pilsner harmonizes perfectly with strong flavors.
✅ Summer barbecue evenings – whether with grilled meat, spicy dips, or fresh salads.
✅ Asian-inspired dishes – the citrus notes of Mandarina Bavaria emphasize the exotic aromas.
My personal favorite scenario? A warm summer evening, good friends, the grill smoking, and a cold Skyrise in hand – that is pure enjoyment.
The Design: Magic in Art Deco Splendor
Not only the taste, but also the can design is a statement. An Art Deco-style magician symbolically lifts the hops, merging tradition with modern aesthetics. The design radiates refreshing elegance and emphasizes the soaring aromatics of the beer.
It's more than just packaging – it's an invitation to discover the beer.