Herrngiersdorf Helles

The Herrngiersdorf sits heavier on your palate than you'd expect from a helles. There's a honeyed sweetness up front, but it's backed by a grainy spine that gives it actual substance. The finish is clean but lingers just long enough to remind you you're drinking beer, not flavored seltzer. It's the kind of lager that rewards attention without demanding it.

Tucher Urbräu Hell

Tucher's Hell is what happens when a brewery decides the point of a helles is to get out of your way. It's impossibly smooth—almost slippery across your tongue. You get pilsner-like crispness with a whisper of malt sweetness, and then it's gone. Perfect when you're thirsty or when you want to drink several without noticing time passing.