The name ‘H41’ comes from the latitude co-ordinate of the Patagonian beech forest where the yeast was discovered, with the H standing for Heineken.
Heineken says the lager represents a new beer style – ‘Wild Lager’ – which uses yeast found in nature. It has a ‘fuller taste with spicy notes balanced by subtle fruity hints’.
The US launch follows H41’s release in the Netherlands, Italy, Ireland, the UK and Dubai (and in France where it is called H71 due to use of a slightly different recipe in this market).
Yeast: ‘the soul of beer’
Heineken has been using its ‘A-yeast’ for the last 130 years.
“However, when the ‘mother’ of our A-yeast was discovered in Patagonia, it presented us with a unique opportunity,” said Heineken Master Brewer, Willem van Waesberghe.
“We began to work with the mother yeast to unlock a spectrum of new flavors, and our Lager Explorations series was born. The taste of every beer in the series will be surprising and intense, but still balanced and refreshing.
“The yeast is an enhancer of the brewing process and is essential in defining the final taste of the beer.”
Heineken says H41 will appeal to millennial premium beer drinkers – ‘who notoriously value authenticity, innovation and a human touch in the brands they choose’ – as well as any beer fans who are looking for new experiences, unique flavors, and quality beverages.
All new additions in the Lager Explorations series will be limited editions. H41 lager will be available at select bars in the US in 12oz bottles and on draught, at 5.3% ABV, slightly higher than Heineken’s 5.0% ABV.