Something old, something new: that’s what I got with my can of Weihenstephaner Helles. Germany’s Weihenstephan, if you don’t already know, is the oldest brewery in the world. They’ve been brewing since 1040, and will soon celebrate their 1000^th anniversary. That, my friends, is something old.

But what about the new? That’s where Weihenstephaner Helles comes in. At the very least, this beer is new to me, as I had never had it before, though I was quite sure I had when I bought it.

The brewery says:

The Weihenstephaner Helles is perfect with a classical, Bavarian cold meal, but also the ideal accompaniment to a hearty roast or Schnitzel. Brewed with centuries-old brewing experience on the Weihenstephan Hill.

They also say:

In its first year already, the Weihenstephan Helles brought home gold – winning first place at the European Beer Star.

Is this then a new beer from Weihenstephan? They have brewed an “original Helles” in the past. Old or new for them, it is a very tasty beer indeed and a fine example of the Munich Helles style.

Weihenstephaner Helles has an alcohol content of 4.8% by volume with 16 IBUs. I paid $2.99 for my half liter can from Alpine Brew & Bottle Haus in Helen, Georgia. That’s about the same rate that Total Wine charges for a 4-pack, $11.99.

Weihenstephaner Helles pours to a brilliant golden color with a thick creamy head of foam and a nose of delicate crisp biscuit malt. Taking a sip, the beer is bready malty and again crisp, and finishes with a kiss of grassy hops but perhaps still leaning towards the sweet malt.

A truly delicious beer that accents the malt as the style should.