Erdinger Kristall Kristallweizen is a standout product from one of Bavaria's most famous breweries, Erdinger Weissbräu. Established in 1886, this brewery has been a leader in wheat beer production for well over a century. Situated in the town of Erding, just outside Munich, Erdinger is world-renowned for its commitment to quality and traditional brewing methods, adhering to the German Beer Purity Law, the Reinheitsgebot. Erdinger’s beers are synonymous with craftsmanship and consistency, and Kristall is no exception.
This beer is a Kristallweizen, a variant of the traditional Hefeweizen but filtered to remove the yeast, resulting in a crystal-clear beer. While Hefeweizen is known for its cloudiness due to yeast suspension, Kristallweizen offers a bright, clear appearance with the same core flavour profile. Erdinger Kristall Kristallweizen is a lighter and crisper option for those who enjoy wheat beers but want a cleaner, more refreshing finish.
Tasting Notes:
Appearance: Erdinger Kristall pours a brilliant golden-yellow with remarkable clarity. The yeast filtration process gives this beer its signature crystal-clear appearance, topped with a dense, white frothy head.
Aroma: The aroma is bright and fruity, with dominant notes of banana, courtesy of the yeast, and subtle undertones of citrus and clove. A faint wheat character lingers in the background, providing balance.
Flavour: This Kristallweizen is crisp and refreshing, with flavours of banana and lemon leading the charge, complemented by a delicate wheat malt sweetness. The subtle clove spice adds complexity, making each sip nuanced and enjoyable. The finish is clean and slightly dry, making it incredibly drinkable.
Mouthfeel: Light-bodied with smooth carbonation, Erdinger Kristall is soft on the palate but with enough effervescence to make it lively and refreshing. The absence of yeast provides a silky mouthfeel without the heaviness often associated with wheat beers.
Brewery History:
Erdinger Weissbräu, founded in 1886 by Johann Kienle, is one of the largest privately owned breweries in Germany. Over the years, Erdinger has earned a global reputation for its top-quality wheat beers, ranging from traditional Hefeweizen to seasonal and specialty brews like Weizenbock and Kristallweizen. The brewery remains dedicated to preserving Bavaria’s beer heritage, using only the finest ingredients and traditional brewing methods.
Erdinger’s beers are brewed according to the strictest quality standards and are known for their balance, drinkability, and consistency. The brewery’s commitment to the Reinheitsgebot ensures that its beers contain only water, malt, hops, and yeast. Erdinger’s portfolio of beers has won numerous awards over the years, cementing its status as a world-class producer of wheat beer.
Food Pairings:
The light and refreshing nature of Erdinger Kristall Kristallweizen makes it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes:
- Seafood: The beer’s citrus notes and light body complement seafood dishes like grilled fish, shrimp, or mussels, enhancing the flavours without overpowering them.
- Salads: Pair Erdinger Kristall with fresh, light salads. The beer’s crispness and subtle fruit notes make it an ideal partner for dishes with citrus dressings or goat cheese.
- Cheeses: Light, creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert pair beautifully with Kristallweizen, as the beer’s effervescence cuts through the richness of the cheese.
- Sausages: For a classic Bavarian pairing, serve Erdinger Kristall alongside Weisswurst or other mild German sausages. The beer’s clean finish and soft carbonation provide a perfect counterpoint to the savoury richness of the sausage.
Whether enjoyed on a warm summer’s day or paired with a light meal, Erdinger Kristall Kristallweizen offers a refreshing and satisfying drinking experience.
Shop the best of craft beer Ireland and from around the world online with TheCru.ie or in our Dublin craft beer store, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15.