Commercial Examples
Bernard Jantarovy lezak, Black Flannel Brewing Nápravník, Gambrinus Polotmava 12, Kozel Semi-Dark.
Black Flannel Academy
Czech Amber Lager | Nápravník
bottom-fermented
A malty amber Czech lager with a hop character that can vary from low to quite significant.
Color
10 – 16 SRM
Bitterness
20 – 35 IBU
Alcohol
4.4 – 5.8% ABV
Sweetness
Complex malt flavor is dominant (medium to medium-high), though its nature may vary from dry and Maillard product-dominant to caramelly and almost sweet.
Balance
History
Historical Development
A Vienna-style lager continuing production in the Czech Republic, with renewed interest from small breweries.
Modern Evolution
Classic characteristics
Appearance
Deep amber to copper color. Clear to bright clarity, with a large, off-white, persistent head.
Aroma
Rich malt aromas ranging from bready and Maillard-dominant to slightly caramelly sweet, with optional spicy or floral hop notes and clean lager character.
Flavor
Complex malt flavor is dominant (medium to medium-high), though its nature may vary from dry and Maillard product-dominant to caramelly and almost sweet.
Mouthfeel
Medium-full to medium body with soft, round character and gentle creaminess. Moderate to low carbonation.
Flavor Profile Deep Dive
Service notes
BJCP designation
Overall Impression: A malty amber Czech lager with a hop character that can vary from low to quite significant.
Comments: The Czech name polotmave pivo translates as half-dark beer, combining two traditional Czech styles.
Style Comparison: Maltier and less bitter than Czech Premium Pale Lager; a Czech interpretation of the Vienna Lager tradition.
Vital Statistics: OG: 1.044 – 1.060 | FG: 1.013 – 1.017 | IBUs: 20 – 35 | SRM: 10 – 16 | ABV: 4.4 – 5.8%
Source: BJCP 2021 Style Guidelines, bjcp.org, retrieved 2026-09-13. Vital statistics are as published; descriptive text is condensed from the published guideline.
Brewers Association designation
Style comparison
Ingredients
Grain Bill
Pilsner and caramel malts, low mineral water, traditional Czech hops, and Czech lager yeast.
Brewing process
Food pairings
Spirit pairings
The soundtrack
Keep exploring
- BJCP Guidelines: 3C (Czech Amber Lager)
- Beer Judge Certification Program: BJCP Official Guidelines