Heineken Original Lager Beer

Tasting Note:

• Appearance: A vibrant pale gold hue, shimmering with lively effervescence. A thick, white head forms initially, then gradually collapses to a thin ring clinging to the sides.
• Aroma: A clean and fresh nose, dominated by notes of bready malt and a crisp cereal grain character. Hints of citrus and floral hops add a touch of complexity, along with a subtle metallic note sometimes present (though this can vary depending on freshness and storage).
• Palate: The first sip delivers a light and refreshing experience, with the bready malt sweetness taking center stage. The carbonation creates a lively mouthfeel, while the hop bitterness provides a gentle counterpoint. Citrus and floral hop flavors echo the nose, but remain subdued. It’s a smooth and easy-drinking experience, with the sweetness fading and the bitterness lingering slightly in the finish.

Overall, Heineken Original Lager is a classic European-style lager, renowned for its clean and balanced character. It’s not intensely flavorful, but rather prioritizes refreshment and accessibility. The malt sweetness and subtle hop bitterness make it a versatile and easy-to-enjoy beer for various occasions.

Food Pairing:

Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Savory:

• Salty Snacks: Pretzels, potato chips, and even popcorn find a refreshing counterpart in the beer’s subtle saltiness. The carbonation cleanses the palate between bites, making it a perfect match for finger foods.
• Seafood: The crispness of the beer cuts through the richness of seafood like oysters, salmon, or grilled shellfish. The malt sweetness complements the natural flavors, while the hops offer a subtle herbal counterpoint.
• Asian Cuisine: Heineken pairs well with the lighter flavors of Asian dishes like stir-fries, sushi, or salads. The beer’s cleanness complements the delicate seasonings, while the carbonation aids digestion.
• Pizza: Similar to Budweiser, Heineken pairs well with the yeasty notes of pizza crust and the gooey cheese. The carbonation balances the richness, making it a popular choice for casual gatherings.

Sweet:

• Fruit Desserts: Lighter fruit-based desserts like citrus sorbet, apple pie, or berry ice cream find a refreshing counterpoint in the beer’s crispness. The acidity of the fruit cuts through the sweetness of the beer, creating a balanced finish.
• Cheese and Fruit Plates: Combine aged cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère with sweet and savory fruits like figs, grapes, or pears. The beer’s malt sweetness complements the cheese’s nuttiness, while the carbonation cleanses the palate between bites.
• Chocolate: While not an obvious pairing, dark chocolate can actually work well with Heineken. The bitterness of the chocolate balances the beer’s sweetness, and the carbonation cleanses the palate for subsequent bites.

• Avg Price (ex-tax)
• 6pk, 12 fl oz $9.27 / 5%
• 12pk, 12fl oz $15.99 / 5%
• 24pk, 12 fl oz $25.98 / 5%

The Original

Wherever you go in the world, it’s always refreshing to see something you recognise. That green bottle, the red star, the smiling ‘e’… like an instant welcome from an old friend.

https://www.heineken.com/global/en/our-products/heineken-original