Crushin’ it, Kolsch-style

Waddell’s brewer Bryan Utigard is a big fan of German beers, and now he’s added another to the lineup.

Krushin the Kolsch debuts at a release party today from 6 to 9 p.m. at JJ’s Grill and Brewhouse. There will be $4 pints of both the kolsch and the house-branded JJ’s Indian Trail Pale Ale from Waddell’s.

The Kolsch style, first brewed in Koln, Germany, is known for its light, crisp character. It’s conditioned cold, like a lager, for extra smoothness after fermenting at warmer ale temperatures for a touch of fruitiness.

Utigard says his version (4.8 percent alcohol by volume, 20 International Bitterness Units), accented with spicy Mt. Hood hops, doesn’t disappoint.

“The Kolsch yeast really did it justice,” he says. “I kept the hops down so you can taste more of the yeast flavor. It’s going to be an awesome summer drinker.”

But you don’t have to stop there. Utigard says the beer will be available year-round, joining such German-style brethren as a Bavarian wheat, pilsner and Vienna lager.