A Complete Guide to Helles: The King of Southern German Beer | From History to How to Drink it Best
"There are so many kinds of German beer, I don't know where to start..."
For those who feel that way, the first beer Schmatz confidently recommends is the "Helles" that we are introducing today.
Although it may not be very well-known in Japan yet, Helles is actually the most consumed beer in Germany, especially in Munich, a major beer-producing country.
It's a beer that you can drink every day without getting tired of it, truly a "liquid bread" that is integrated into the daily lives of Germans.
This page comprehensively introduces the charm and history of Helles, which can be called the essence of German beer, and why Schmatz is so passionate about Helles.
After reading this, you're sure to become a "Helles expert"!
So, what kind of beer is "Helles"?
In a word, it's "a golden lager beer that features the sweetness and umami of malt."
Its appearance is very similar to common Japanese beers (Pilsners), but you'll be surprised by the difference when you drink it.
If Pilsner is enjoyed for its "bitterness and crispness," Helles is a beer to enjoy for its "gentleness and richness."
◎ Appearance: A bright, clear golden color (Helles means "bright" in German).
◎ Aroma: A fragrant and rich aroma, like freshly baked bread.
◎ Taste: Low bitterness. The sweetness of the wheat spreads in the mouth, and the aftertaste disappears smoothly, making it incredibly easy to drink.
This is a style that we especially recommend to those who say, "I'm not a big fan of bitter beers..."
Fun Fact: Try comparing it with a Pilsner
These two styles are similar yet opposite. By comparing them, you can clearly distinguish the good qualities of each.
|
Characteristic |
German Pilsner |
Münchner Helles |
|
Key Feature |
Hops (bitterness, aroma) |
Malt (sweetness, umami) |
|
Bitterness |
Crisp and strong |
Mild and gentle |
|
Throat feel |
Crisp (stimulating) |
Smooth |
Is it "the most difficult to brew"? A brewer's nightmare beer
Helles is simple and easy to drink, but among brewers, it is feared as a "Naked Beer" because there's nowhere to hide imperfections.
Unlike other styles where strong hop aromas or roasted malt flavors can mask deficiencies, with Helles, the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the brewing process directly translate into the taste.
To leave only pure, clean umami in a clear golden color. This is where professional brewers truly showcase their skill.
For more details on our commitment to such delicate beer brewing, please also read this column.
👉 Schmatz Beer's "Four Commitments"
The Untold Story of Helles: Changing Munich's History
While Helles is now synonymous with Munich, its origin story is quite fascinating.
In fact, until the latter half of the 19th century, Munich was a city of "dark beer (Dunkel)". Due to the water quality at the time, the beer inevitably turned out darker in color.
However, when the golden "Pilsner" was born in neighboring Bohemia and became wildly popular, Munich's brewers panicked. "Munich beer will become outdated if we don't do something!"
That's when the prestigious Spaten Brewery stepped up. Utilizing the latest technology, they finally completed Helles, Munich's unique golden lager.
The unexpected "Hamburg strategy"
This is where it gets interesting. Fearing that conservative Munich citizens would be angry and say, "Are you abandoning traditional dark beer?!", they actually first test-marketed it in the distant port city of Hamburg.
After achieving great success there, they finally introduced it to their hometown, by importing the reputation that "there's a new Munich beer that's popular in the north."
It's thanks to such a cautious yet bold strategy that we can now enjoy delicious Helles.
Why Schmatz wants to establish Helles in Japan
For us at Schmatz, Helles is not just a product; it is the very soul of our brand.
Marc Lütgen, the founder of Schmatz, says:
"I believe my greatest achievement in Japan is bringing authentic Helles to the country."
In Germany, Helles is present in every aspect of life, whether it's enjoyed with breakfast sausages or shared with friends after work.
"I want everyone in Japan to know that there's such a delicious beer that you can drink every day!"
With this strong desire, Schmatz has not only focused on serving Helles at our restaurants but also put effort into developing canned beer that can be enjoyed at home.
You can learn more about how to enjoy beer with all five senses here.
👉 SCHMATZ Beer You Can Enjoy with All Five Senses
Enjoy Helles even more! Recommended Pairings
The delicate malt umami of Helles, which is like "dashi" (broth), actually pairs exceptionally well with Japanese food (washoku)!
Just by switching your usual evening drink to Helles, your dining table will become even richer.
1. Yakitori (Salt)
The juicy umami of chicken and the graininess of Helles perfectly match.
2. Dashi-rich Stews / Oden
They don't clash; they enhance each other's gentle flavors.
3. Tempura
The fragrant crispiness of the batter and the bread-like aroma of Helles harmonize, making it impossible to stop eating.
Now, experience the "sound of happiness" in golden hues
Helles may often be overshadowed by Pilsners, but it is actually a beer that is incredibly difficult to brew worldwide, and is cherished by Germans as the "everyday king."
It may not have a flashy impact. But with every sip, you'll feel a deep sense of happiness, a quiet "Ah, this is delicious."
It is truly the embodiment of the word "Schmatz," which means "the sound of happiness" (the sound made when eating something delicious).
If you haven't experienced Helles yet, please try this golden miracle at a Schmatz restaurant or through our online shop. In future columns, we will share even deeper ways to enjoy Helles, so stay tuned!
*Beer lineup and availability vary by store. Please contact the store directly for details.
▼Why not experience the authentic taste of Germany at home first?
View "Helles" at the official Schmatz online shop
▼If you want to enjoy freshly brewed draft beer, visit a Schmatz near you.
Click here for a list of Schmatz locations
