Tröegs Releasing Scratch 556 Pilsner Project Italian Pilsner

Scratch #556 represents the latest beer in our “Pilsner Project,” and we’re off to the boot-shaped country of Italy. While the Italian Pilsner has much in common with its traditional German counterpart, the key distinguishing factor is dry-hopping. We chose Tettnanger, the classic Noble hop revered for its soft, balanced aroma, to coax notes of gentle herbs and subtle spices with a hint of spring meadow. This draft-only release is uber-limited, so come try it before it disappears!

Scratch #556 arrives as the newest chapter in our ongoing Pilsner Project, a series dedicated to exploring the global evolution of pilsner brewing traditions. This release transports drinkers to Italy, where the modern Italian Pilsner style has earned a passionate following for its crisp drinkability, expressive hop character, and refined balance. Scratch #556 embraces that heritage while showcasing our own brewing identity, resulting in a beer that feels both classic and freshly reimagined.

At the heart of Scratch #556 is the defining hallmark of the Italian Pilsner style: dry‑hopping. Unlike traditional German pilsners, which rely on restrained hop additions during the boil, Italian brewers introduced a more aromatic approach—layering Noble hops late in the process to amplify herbal, floral, and spicy nuances without compromising clarity or drinkability. For this release, we selected Tettnanger, one of the most iconic Noble hop varieties, celebrated for its soft aroma, delicate spice, and meadow‑fresh herbal tones.

Tettnanger’s gentle character allows Scratch #556 to remain crisp, clean, and refreshing while still delivering a vivid aromatic profile. Expect subtle herbal notes, whispers of white pepper, faint floral tones, and a breezy meadow quality that lifts the entire drinking experience. The dry‑hop addition enhances complexity without overwhelming the palate, preserving the pilsner’s snappy finish and bright malt backbone.

Scratch #556 is draft‑only and extremely limited, making it a fleeting but memorable entry in our Pilsner Project. Its refined hop expression, classic pilsner structure, and Italian‑inspired elegance make it a standout for lager lovers, hop enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore the nuances of modern pilsner brewing. Enjoy it while it lasts—this one won’t be around long.

About Tröegs Independent Brewing:

Our Commitment to Craft, Tradition, and Innovation

For decades, our brewery has been defined by a relentless dedication to craftsmanship, tradition, and boundary‑pushing creativity. We believe that beer is both an art and a historical narrative—each release tells a story rooted in regional brewing heritage, ingredient selection, and the pursuit of flavor. Scratch #556 is a perfect example of how we honor classic styles while exploring new interpretations that resonate with today’s drinkers.

Our brewing philosophy centers on precision, patience, and respect for raw materials. We source high‑quality malt, Noble hops, and specialty ingredients from trusted growers who share our commitment to excellence. Every batch is brewed with meticulous attention to detail, from water chemistry to fermentation temperature, ensuring that each beer reflects the integrity of its style and the vision behind its creation.

The Scratch Series embodies our experimental spirit. These limited releases allow our brewers to explore global traditions, test new techniques, and revisit forgotten styles with modern craftsmanship. Whether it’s a hop‑forward lager, a rustic farmhouse ale, or a barrel‑aged specialty beer, each Scratch release is designed to educate, inspire, and delight our community of beer lovers.

Our taproom serves as the heart of our brewery—a gathering place where drinkers can experience fresh beer at its peak, connect with our brewing team, and discover new releases before they reach the wider world. We take pride in offering draft‑only exclusives like Scratch #556, giving visitors a chance to taste something rare, expressive, and deeply connected to our brewing journey.

As we continue expanding the Pilsner Project, our mission remains clear: celebrate the global diversity of pilsner brewing while crafting lagers that showcase precision, clarity, and expressive hop character. Scratch #556 reflects that mission with its Italian‑inspired dry‑hopped profile, Tettnanger‑driven aroma, and crisp, refreshing finish. It’s a beer that honors tradition while embracing innovation—exactly what our brewery strives for in every release.

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