UK: Carlsberg launches re-creation of original 19th century dark lager in the on-trade until June

A re-creation of Carlsberg’s original dark lager from the late 19th century has been launched exclusively in the UK on-trade until June, the Bar Magazine reported on March 13.

Carlsberg 1883 uses the brewer’s original 134-year old yeast, Saccharomyces Carlsbergensis, which was first isolated and identified by Dr Emil Christian Hansen at the Carlsberg Laboratory in Copenhagen.

The strain is still used in fermentation in brewing all around the world but the new beer was developed through the Carlsberg Rebrew project using pure yeast found in a bottle from 1883.

Celebrating this innovation, the new Danish-style dark lager is full-bodied and rich in malt and caramel, with ABV of 4.6%. Brewed in Denmark, it has a fresh aroma of malt and caramel and a sweet-biscuit body followed by a well-balance aftertaste.

Liam Newton, vice president of marketing for Carlsberg UK, said: “We’re proud of the role Carlsberg has played in the history of brewing. Carlsberg 1883 celebrates the discovery of the purified yeast strain that was shared with brewers worldwide to secure the consistent qualities of beer as we know it today.

“The beer market has changed dramatically in the past few years, let alone since 1883, so it is important that brewers like ourselves demonstrate the quality of our beers and the dedication of our brewers and ultimately help create reasons for beer drinkers to visit the pub.”

13 March, 2018