The BrewDog Philosophy: What is Lost Lager?
BrewDog, the self-proclaimed 'fiercely defiant & independent' Scottish craft brewery, introduced Lost Lager to challenge the market dominance of larger, less flavourful lagers. Instead of mass-produced, industrial lagers, BrewDog aimed to create a 'planet first' pilsner that was both high-quality and sustainable. The beer is a German-style pilsner, dry-hopped with classic German Saphir hops, which provide a modern twist with bright, characterful flavours. By using innovative methods and quality ingredients, BrewDog's goal was to recapture the essence of what a good, classic lager should be—a mission they summarize with the tagline: 'Lager is back!'.
The Brewing Process: A Sustainable Approach
True to its 'planet first' branding, the brewing of Lost Lager is underpinned by a commitment to sustainability. BrewDog outlines several key initiatives that set this beer apart from many competitors:
- Brewed using wind power for renewable energy.
- Utilizes a third less water compared to mainstream lager production.
- Incorporates surplus fresh bread into the malt bill to combat food waste.
- The company is 'carbon negative,' actively removing more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits.
This eco-conscious approach is a significant selling point, appealing to consumers who prioritize environmental responsibility in their purchasing decisions. While some critics view this marketing as overly 'woke,' the underlying efforts to reduce environmental impact are genuine.
Deconstructing the Taste Profile: Crisp, Clean, and Hoppy
So, what does Lost Lager actually taste like? The answer is generally positive, though with some variation based on individual palates. The core flavour is characterized by a crisp and clean taste, which makes it infinitely sessionable, as BrewDog themselves describe.
- Aroma and Flavour: Expect vibrant citrus notes, particularly hints of grapefruit, and herbal notes from the German Saphir and Select hops. Some tasters also detect stone fruit notes.
- Finish: It has a dry, clean finish with a subtle but pleasant bitterness that contrasts with the sweetness often found in macro lagers.
- Body: Reviewers describe it as light-to-medium bodied, smooth, and very drinkable.
While most praise its flavour, not all reviews are glowing. Some consumers on sites like Tesco and Amazon have found the taste to be underwhelming, comparing it to an 'insipid' macro lager or detecting an 'unpleasantly sulphurous' note. Others found it merely 'solid' rather than spectacular. This suggests that while it’s a high-quality product, individual preference still plays a significant role in the enjoyment of Lost Lager.
Lost Lager vs. The Competition: A Comparison
To properly evaluate its quality, it's helpful to compare Lost Lager against its peers, both within the BrewDog family and against other popular lagers. Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Lost Lager | Punk IPA (BrewDog) | Mainstream Lager (e.g., Bud) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Style | Dry-Hopped Pilsner | American IPA | Industrial Lager |
| ABV | 4.5% | 5.4% | Varies (often 4-5%) |
| Flavor Profile | Crisp, clean, citrus, herbal | Explosion of tropical fruit, hoppy | Watery, neutral, sometimes tinny |
| Body | Light-to-medium, sessionable | Medium-bodied, complex | Light, often thin |
| Price | Mid-range, more affordable than Punk | Higher-priced craft beer | Low-cost |
| Hops | Saphir, Select, Spalter | New World Hops (e.g., Simcoe, Citra) | Industrial |
| Sustainability | Carbon Negative, wind power | Some initiatives, but not the core focus | Limited focus |
This comparison highlights Lost Lager's position as a premium alternative to standard lagers. It offers more flavour and character than mass-market options, without the intense hop profile or higher price point of a full-blown IPA like Punk.
The Final Verdict on Lost Lager
So, is Lost Lager any good? The consensus from both industry critics and many consumers is a resounding yes, especially when compared to its mainstream counterparts. It offers a much-needed breath of fresh air in the lager category, providing a crisp, flavourful, and sessionable drinking experience. Its award-winning status and eco-conscious credentials provide further justification for its quality and appeal.
However, it's not without its detractors. The mixed consumer reviews suggest that if you prefer a very simple, un-hopped lager, Lost Lager's distinct citrus and herbal notes might not be to your taste. For craft beer fans who already appreciate BrewDog's hoppy character, this pilsner provides a lighter, more refreshing option.
Ultimately, whether Lost Lager is 'good' for you depends on your palate. But as a well-made, characterful, and responsibly produced beer, it is certainly a cut above the average lager. You can find more user reviews and ratings at BeerAdvocate.
Conclusion: A Superior Lager Experience
For those who have 'lost' hope in finding a decent lager, BrewDog offers a worthy contender. Lost Lager successfully bridges the gap between mass-market lagers and more complex craft beers. It delivers a refreshing taste with a clean, crisp finish, supported by impressive sustainability efforts. While some tastebuds may find its hoppy character divisive, its numerous positive reviews and industry accolades confirm its status as a high-quality and reliable choice. It's not just a good lager; it's a better lager, and a sustainable one at that.
