German Leichtbier: A Light and Flavorful Lager

German Leichtbier, pronounced “LYESHT-beer,” is a pale, highly-attenuated, light-bodied German lager with lower alcohol and calories than standard-strength beers. This style is characterized by its moderately bitter taste, noticeable malt and hop flavors, and a clean fermentation profile. Leichtbier is marketed primarily as a diet-oriented beer with lower carbohydrates, alcohol, and calories, making it an ideal choice for health or fitness-conscious consumers. Traditionally, Leichtbier was consumed by physical laborers in factories or fields, but modern versions are more based on popular American products in the same class.

Characteristics of German Leichtbier

Aroma and Appearance

German Leichtbier exhibits a low to medium hop aroma with a spicy, herbal, or floral character, along with a low to medium-low grainy-sweet or slight malt aroma. It has a pale straw to deep yellow color with brilliant clarity and a moderate white head.

Flavor and Mouthfeel

The flavor profile of German Leichtbier includes low to medium grainy-sweet malt flavor initially, medium hop bitterness, and low to medium hop flavor with a spicy, herbal, or floral quality. It has a light malty and hoppy aftertaste with a dry finish. The beer has a light to very light body, medium to high carbonation, and a smooth, well-attenuated mouthfeel.

Ingredients and Vital Statistics

The characteristic ingredients of German Leichtbier include Continental Pils malt, German lager yeast, and traditional German hops. It has an original gravity (OG) ranging from 1.026 to 1.034, international bitterness units (IBUs) ranging from 15 to 28, a final gravity (FG) ranging from 1.006 to 1.010, a standard reference method (SRM) ranging from 1.5 to 4, and an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 2.4% to 3.6% [1].

Brewing and Commercial Examples

Brewing a German Leichtbier involves careful attention to the ingredients and brewing process to achieve the desired light body, flavor, and alcohol content. Commercial examples of German Leichtbier include Autenrieder Schlossbräu Leicht, Greif Bräu Leicht, Hohenthanner Tannen Hell Leicht, Müllerbrau Heimer Leicht, Schönramer Surtaler Schankbier, and Waldhaus Sommer Bier.

Style Comparison and Market Trends

German Leichtbier is likened to a lower-alcohol, lighter-bodied, slightly less aggressive German Pils or Munich Helles and is more bitter and flavorful than an American Light Lager.

Visit your local Growler Guys to experience a variety of beer styles.

German Leichtbier is a refreshing and flavorful beer style that offers a lighter alternative to traditional lagers. With its lower alcohol and calorie content, it caters to the preferences of health-conscious consumers while still delivering a satisfying drinking experience. Whether enjoyed during summertime swim parties or holiday family gatherings, German Leichtbier is a versatile and enjoyable choice for beer aficionados.

Explore the growing variety of beers in one taproom, The Growler Guys. Each of our locations carries the best local varieties, from the palest ales to the darkest stouts, along with ciders and kombucha. Our friendly staff is happy to walk you through the characteristics of every style to help you discover your personal favorites. Take home the beers you love best in a growler to share with family and friends. View our online tap list to learn about the selections currently available at a location near you!