1872 Lager Revisited
An updated look at our ode to Dodge City.
One of our longest running flagships has seen quite a few changes throughout the years. By my estimates, 1872 Lager has had over 20 recipe adjustments in the six years DCB has been open. Using flaked rice as an adjunct, then flaked corn, then flaked wheat. 6-row barley or 2-row barley. Saaz, Cluster, or Crystal hops. The slight tweaks and adjustments from batch to batch were a pursuit of the perfect classic American pilsner. For a blast from the past, you can take a look at Larry's previous notes on 1872 here.
So, what makes a classic American pilsner? This style of beer was brewed in the USA by immigrant German brewers who brought their process and yeast with them. However, they had to adapt their recipes to work with malt and hops native to their new land. This style of beer died out after prohibition, hence the more common name "Pre-Prohibition Lager".
Today, we have settled in on what we think makes a great Pre-Prohibition Lager. We use standard American 2-row as a base, flaked wheat and dextrine for head retention, and acidulated malt for the right pH. For hops we focus on the traditional Cluster hops but add in a touch of Crystal for just a little more depth. The result is a bold and rustic lager that is delicious and refreshing.
Next time you're at the brewery, get a tankard of 1872 and compare your taste to the BJCP guidelines for this classic style. I feel like 1872 checks the boxes for delicious a Pre-Prohibition Lager.
1872 is the year Dodge City was founded, and it is that history we hope to honor with our flagship lager. So, cheers to you Dodge City!
Thomas Derstein
Head Brewer
Dodge City Brewing
701 3rd Avenue
Dodge City, KS 67801
620-371-3999
info@dodgecitybrewing.com
- Mon - Tue
- Closed
- Wed - Fri
- -
- Saturday
- -
- Sunday
- -