In the trendy Karlín neighborhood of central Prague, the brewpub called Dva Kohouti embodies the merger of the two key elements of Czech beer culture: the brewing and—no less important—the pouring and service. The side-pull taps attached directly to the serving tanks behind the bar are only part of the story.

In this episode recorded at the brewery, head brewer Lukaš Tomsa explains the ideas behind Dva Kohouti, how they brew their traditional lagers and more internationally inspired ales, and how they ensure that the service end completes the job of creating a great beer. Among other topics, he discusses:

the importance of pouring and service that respects the product
a brewery-taproom concept that gives production and service equal emphasis
comparing single- and double-decocted pale lagers
fermenting a bit warmer than traditional Czech brewers, to keep diacetyl in check
getting natural carbonation by capping the tank during fermentation
using decoctions for tart fruit beers and American-style pale ales and IPAs
using decoction and raw barley to promote foam in a quick-soured fruit beer
paying attention to glassware and draft lines to ensure perfect pours

And more.

This episode is brought to you by:

G&D Chillers (https://gdchillers.com): For years G&D Chillers has chilled the beers you love, partnering with 3,000+ breweries across the country along the way, and they’re proud of the cool partnerships they’ve built over the past 30 years. Reach out for a quote today at gdchillers.com or call to discuss your next project.

BSG Craft Brewing (https://BSGCraftbrewing.com): BSG's mission is simple—to help brewers craft the best beer possible. This is why BSG Hops are sourced directly from growers and processed at their FSSC-certified facility, giving you access to high-quality and unique varieties like Cashmere, Comet, Triumph, El Dorado, plus many more. Discover a whole universe of hop sensory at BSGCraftBrewing.com/hops

Old Orchard (https://www.oldorchard.com/brewer): If you hear Old Orchard mentioned in the brewing community, don't be surprised: the flavored craft juice concentrate blends from Old Orchard have shipped to over 46 states. To join the core of Old Orchard's brewing community, learn more at oldorchard.com/brewer

Accubrew (https://accubrew.io) AccuBrew announces the addition of Specific Gravity to our suite of brewing tools! AccuBrew is a game changing fermentation monitoring system that gives you unprecedented insight into your yeast’s health and activity. Join the AccuBrew community today and experience 24/7 peace of mind! Visit with the developers at booth (#2935) at the 2023 CBC BrewExpo America!

ProBrew (https://www.probrew.com) ProBrew has always been a dedicated and trusted partner to breweries, especially when they make the leap to canning their product. That is why they only sell rotary can fillers, which significantly reduce product waste and produce higher quality product than an inline can filler. For more information, visit www.probrew.com or email contactus@probrew.com.

Indie Hops (https://indiehops.com/podcast): Indie’s unique varieties—Strata, Lórien, Luminosa, and Meridian—are trusted by brewers worldwide to modernize, brighten and diversify their beer lineup. Indie also offers classics that thrive in Oregon terroir such as Chinook, Crystal and Sterling. Visit indiehops.com/podcast and stop by their booth#2131at CBC to discover what’s new in hop flavors. Indie Hops — Life is short, let’s make it flavorful!

Twin Monkeys (https://TwinMonkeys.net): Are you ready to start canning your craft beverages? Twin Monkeys Beverage Systems is here to help. This troop of engineers, service techs, and microbrew fanatics offers customizable packaging solutions for every craft. Their canning lines are affordable, made in the USA, and engineered to grow alongside the needs of your business. Visit TwinMonkeys.net today.

Fermentis (https://fermentis.com): Brett is wild, its unpredictable, gives funky notes to beer, evolves in time. Historically it was used without control, but Fermentis harnessed it… Discover SafBrew™ BR-8, the first dry Brett by Fermentis, now available in 100g and 5g. Want to know more? Don’t miss the Fermentis Academy 2023 program in Minneapolis April 11th or Portland April 13th, or meet Fermentis experts at CBC in the BSG Village to answer all your questions. We will also host a SafBrew™ BR-8 barnyard bash on Monday May 8th from 2:00 - 4:30pm. You are cordially invited, don’t miss it!

ABS Commercial (https://abs-commercial.com): ABS Commercial has been a full-service brewery outfitter for over 10 years. We are proud to offer brewhouses, tanks, keg washers, and small parts to brewers across the country as well as equipment for distilling, cider-making, wine-making, and more! Contact us today at sales@abs-commercial.com to discuss your customized brewery needs. Going to the Craft Brewers Conference in Nashville? Stop by their booth to connect with our brewery consultants and enter for a chance to win a Keg Viking Keg Washer! ABS Commercial. We are brewers.

Support Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine Podcast

299: Lukáš Tomsa of Dva Kohouti Brews the Beer, but the Bartender Makes the Beer

Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine Podcast

299: Lukáš Tomsa of Dva Kohouti Brews the Beer, but the Bartender Makes the Beer