299: Lukáš Tomsa of Dva Kohouti Brews the Beer, but the Bartender Makes the Beer

In the trendy Karlín neighborhood of central Prague, the brewpub called Dva Kohouti embodies the merger of the two key elements of Czech beer culture: the brewing and—no less important—the pouring and service. The side-pull taps attached directly to the serving tanks behind the bar are only part of the story.

In this episode recorded at the brewery, head brewer Lukaš Tomsa explains the ideas behind Dva Kohouti, how they brew their traditional lagers and more internationally inspired ales, and how they ensure that the service end completes the job of creating a great beer. Among other topics, he discusses:

the importance of pouring and service that respects the product

a brewery-taproom concept that gives production and service equal emphasis

comparing single- and double-decocted pale lagers

fermenting a bit warmer than traditional Czech brewers, to keep diacetyl in check

getting natural carbonation by capping the tank during fermentation

using decoctions for tart fruit beers and American-style pale ales and IPAs

using decoction and raw barley to promote foam in a quick-soured fruit beer

paying attention to glassware and draft lines to ensure perfect pours

And more.

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