I recently had the pleasure of trying Eichinger Bräu Czech Pils by Black Husky Brewing, and from the very first sip, it delivered exactly what I hoped for: a clean, crisp lager true to the Czech tradition, with a flavor profile that makes it not just sessionable, but memorable.
This one’s worth a write-up—especially since it left me with one lingering thought: that finish tastes just like a saltine cracker. And I mean that in the best possible way.
The Beer Itself
This pilsner pours a bright golden straw with a tight white head, and right away you get those signature notes of bready malt and soft floral hops. It's clearly aiming for the Czech/Bohemian style, but with a touch of Black Husky’s malt-forward identity built in.
At 4.5% ABV and 42 IBU, it's light and drinkable, but not bland. The flavor opens with a gently sweet malt character—think biscuit or unsweetened toast—before finishing with a firm but friendly bitterness. Nothing aggressive here. Just balance, intention, and refreshment.
And then comes that finish: dry, salty, clean. It hit me like a flash—this tastes like I just ate a saltine. Not in a weird way, but in the best way possible. It’s that delicate combination of starch and salt that dries out your mouth just enough to make you want more. It's comforting and nostalgic, like the kind of beer you'd crack open on a crisp autumn day—or with dinner.
Chili Dreams
That got me thinking: this beer would absolutely sing alongside a bowl of chili. The clean finish and subtle hop bitterness would slice right through the richness of the meat and beans, while the saltine-like aftertaste makes it feel like you’re already halfway to a pairing. It’s the kind of beer that doesn’t just complement food—it wants to be paired.
About the Brewery
Black Husky Brewing, based in Milwaukee’s Riverwest neighborhood, was originally founded up north in a log cabin with a humble setup and a sled dog muse. Tim and Toni Eichinger have built a brewery with personality—one that respects traditional styles but isn’t afraid to give them a local twist. The Eichinger Bräu name is a direct nod to the brewer’s own legacy and brewing philosophy: authentic, honest, and built for flavor.
Final Thoughts
Eichinger Bräu Czech Pils is one of those rare beers that delivers exactly what it promises. It’s not flashy or over-hopped. It’s not a modern reinvention. It’s a clean, bready, balanced lager that stays true to its Czech roots while adding a distinct Midwestern accent.
If you're a fan of Pilsner Urquell or just love a well-executed classic style, give this one a try. It's better! Bonus points if there’s a bowl of chili nearby.
My rating: 4/5
Would I drink it again? Without hesitation. And next time, I’m bringing the chili.