Andrew Chainless
Gose beer is a type of German sour beer that originates from the town of Goslar in Lower Saxony.
The history of Gose beer can be traced back to the 16th century when records show that it was being brewed in Goslar. However, the style fell out of favour in the early 1900s and was only revived in the 1990s by two breweries: Brauerei Freiberger and Brauhaus Goslar.
Nowadays, Gose beer is enjoying something of a renaissance, with many craft breweries around the world producing their own versions. If you’re keen to try one, look out for beers from The Wild Beer Co (in the UK), Anderson Valley Brewing Company (in the US), and Brouwerij Emelisse (in the Netherlands).
How to pronounce Gose beer?
When it comes to pronouncing Gose beer, there are two main schools of thought. Some people say “goh-zuh”, while others say “goes-uh”. Ultimately, it doesn’t really matter how you say it – as long as you enjoy drinking it!
Important to know: many people confuse Gose and Gueuze. But remember, these are two different kinds of beer.
Gose beer is a type of German sour beer, while Gueuze beer is a type of Belgian sour beer. Both styles are tart and acidic, but Gose beer is brewed with at least 50% wheat and often has a salt content of around 4 grams per litre. Gueuze beer, on the other hand, is made with 100% lambic beer – a spontaneously fermented wheat beer.
What are the flavors and ingredients in Gose beer?
Gose beer is usually brewed with at least 50% wheat, and often has a salt content (from the water used to brew it) of around 4 grams per litre. The beer is left unfiltered, and so can appear cloudy. It is also quite tart and acidic, due to the lactic acid bacteria that are used during fermentation.
Other common ingredients in Gose beer include coriander and salt. Some brewers also add fruit, such as raspberries or cherries.
When it comes to taste, Gose beer is quite sour and tart, with a slightly salty finish. The wheat gives the beer a smooth mouthfeel, while the coriander adds a touch of spice. Fruit additions can make the beer even more refreshing, while also adding another layer of flavor.
The best way to drink Gose beer
Gose beer is best enjoyed chilled, in a glass that allows you to appreciate the beer’s appearance. A tulip glass or a pint glass are both good choices.
If you’re drinking a fruit-flavored Gose beer, then it can be fun to garnish your glass with a slice of the fruit that has been used in the brewing process. For example, if you’re drinking a raspberry Gose, then a slice of raspberry on the rim of your glass can enhance the flavor experience.
Food pairings with Gose beer
- Spicy dishes: Gose beer’s acidity and tartness can help to cut through the heat of spicy dishes.
- Sharp cheeses: The acidity in Gose beer can help to balance out the richness of sharp cheeses.
- Fatty foods: The acidity in Gose beer can help to cut through rich and fatty foods.
- Fruit desserts: The fruitiness of Gose beer can complement fruit-based desserts.
FAQs about Gose beer
Gose beer is quite sour and tart, with a slightly salty finish. The wheat gives the beer a smooth mouthfeel, while the coriander adds a touch of spice. Fruit additions can make the beer even more refreshing, while also adding another layer of flavor.
The alcohol content of Gose beer ranges from 4-5% ABV.
Gose beer is a type of German sour beer, while Sour beer can refer to any type of beer that is intentionally brewed to be tart and acidic. Both styles are tart and acidic, but Gose beer is brewed with at least 50% wheat and often has a salt content of around 4 grams per litre. Sour beer, on the other hand, can be made with any type of malt or grain bill.
