Welcome to my Beer Review: Imperial Pils by Lagunitas Brewing. Lets start with the basics:
Beer: Imperial Pils | Brewery: Lagunitas | Locale: Petaluma, CA | Style: Imperial / Double Pilsner | ABV: 8.6% | IBU: 57 | Color: Golden Blonde | Aroma: Hoppy, Floral | Flavor: Fruity, Bready, Floral, Malty | Untappd: DogFishThis
My Personal Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Place to Drink This Beer: Anywhere off the coast of San Pablo Bay while listening to 70's rock on Pandora...and of course, covered in sunscreen.
Lagunitas is my dad's favorite brewery, needless to say it is one of the first craft breweries I came into contact with and they have been a big part of my craft beer journey. I don't think I can say I've ever had a below average beer from them and I like to try every beer they release. There is a decent amount of Lagunitas released in Boise and this seasonal release popped up in Winco (which happens from time to time), so I had to pick it up...along with eggs, milk, and toothpaste.
*Disclaimer: Ignore the date on this post, this is a summer release and meant to be consumed in the summer...I was a bit behind on this post :/
(Photo courtesy of: https://origin.ih.constantcontact.com/fs191/1103577314979/img/89.jpg)
According to Lagunitas.com, their Imperial Pils is "Big 'n Juicy, with floral soft aromas and fruity sweet flavors." I have to agree with this description, Imperial Pils is full bodied with strong floral aromas followed by the classic crispness of a pilsner on the back end. It is a nice blend of citrus hops, semi-sweet malts, and finishes with hints of citrus fruit.
Overall, I enjoyed this beer. If Pilsner isn't your top craft beer choice, don't let the name scare you, you'll enjoy this beer if you're into citrusy IPAs. Not to mention, the high ABV of this beer is well hidden and promises to help you enjoy a hot summer day. This may not be my favorite Lagunitas beer but it's a solid, high quality effort, and only makes me want to continue supporting their company. In the words of my father, "Lagufukinitas!"