EU: Heineken brews limited-edition lager with rare type of ‘mother’ yeast

Heineken has launched a limited-edition lager brewed using a rare type of yeast, and harbours plans to release further new products in the near future, FoodBev.com reported on March 22.

The new H41 beer is made from a rare “mother yeast” discovered in Patagonia, the name in turn being derived from the initial letter of Heineken and the latitude coordinate of the beech forest where the yeast was first found.

Developed by the brand’s master brewers, the new lager has a fuller taste, with spicy notes balanced by subtle fruity hints, the Dutch beer maker said. It will be launched in Italy in March and selected outlets in the Netherlands from April, available on draught and in 330ml bottles.

Heineken master brewer Willem van Waesberghe said: “Central to the famous Heineken taste is our unique A-yeast. It was first used 130 years ago by Dr Elion, a Heineken brewer trained by Louis Pasteur. It is still used today. The exact make up of our A-yeast is a closely guarded secret.

“However, when the ‘mother’ of our A-yeast was discovered in Patagonia, it presented us with a unique opportunity. Using our unrivalled expertise, Heineken’s master brewers began to work with the mother yeast to unlock a spectrum of new flavours. Our Lager Explorations series was born. The taste of every beer in the series will be surprising and intense, but still balanced and refreshing.”

Gianluca Di Tondo, senior director global of the Heineken brand, added: “Heineken has more than 150 years of passion for beer and brewing mastery, with outstanding expertise in yeast. This means we are in a perfect position to explore different tastes and flavours whilst remaining true to our iconic product.”

23 March, 2016