Why go
Compare Kölsch around Cologne, Altbier near Düsseldorf and wheat beer in Bavaria to see how regional beer identities differ. Along the Rhine and its tributaries, wine becomes more prominent. For a nonalcoholic option, Apfelschorle mixes apple juice with sparkling water.
The full story
Pilsener is a familiar pale lager across much of Germany, but regional styles are worth noticing. Kölsch is a light-colored beer associated with Cologne. Altbier, darker in color, belongs to Düsseldorf and the lower Rhine. Bavarian Weißbier is a wheat beer, while Berlin’s sour Berliner Weiße is sometimes served with flavored syrup. Schwarzbier, a dark style once especially associated with East Germany, offers another contrast. Wine-growing areas lie along the Rhine and its tributaries. Riesling and Silvaner are well-known white varieties; Spätburgunder is a red grape to recognize. A Radler combines beer and lemonade. Schorle means a drink diluted with sparkling water, often juice; Apfelschorle is the apple version. Coffee is also part of the afternoon cake tradition, while East Frisia has a distinct tea culture. The drink list can therefore tell you quite a lot about where you are.