When we pulled this beer style from the Jar of Destiny back in January, we knew we were in for a good one. This time, it was Mike’s turn to brew, and he tackled a Czech Amber Lager (BJCP 3C). If you recall, last year he brewed a Czech Dark Lager (3D). To pick this style in 2025 was a great opportunity to explore a lighter but equally malt-forward cousin. Czech Amber Lagers should have a rich malt character, a touch of caramel, and that signature “zippy” European hop presence. We had high hopes for this one, and Mike’s process didn’t disappoint.
The Recipe: A Balance of Malt and Hops
Mike’s batch size is 3.5 US Gallons.
Ingredients
Grains:
63% Type 1 Munich Malt (~7°L)
32% Bohemian Pilsner Malt
5% Cara Aroma Malt (~170°L)
Additional Color Adjustment: ~1 oz Carafa Special III (added at the end of the mash, crushed fine, and recirculated)
Hops:
1 oz Saaz hops (2.9% AA) @ 60 min
2 oz Saaz hops (2.9% AA) @ flameout (used with no-chill method, allowing for extended hop steeping)
Yeast:
Wyeast 2278 Czech Pils (starter made before pitching)
Water:
Spring water with Calcium chloride and sulfate added (favoring sulfate slightly to enhance crispness)
Process
Mash Schedule:
Mash in at 145°F (low for maximum fermentability)
Ramp up to 150°F and hold for 50 minutes
Mash out at 168°F for 15 minutes
Fermentation:
Fermented at traditional lager temps
Conditioned in keg for approximately 1.5 months before tasting
Outcome
Original Gravity (OG): 1.052
Final Gravity (FG): 1.015
ABV: 4.9%
SRM: 14 (Estimated)
Czech Amber Lager Tasting Notes
On the pour, this beer has a clear amber hue with red highlights, a persistent off-white head, and a toasty, bready aroma backed by that classic Saaz spiciness. The first sip delivers malt-forward flavors with notes of bread crust with a hint of caramel.
The malt is balanced by a dry finish and a lingering noble hop bite. The “zippy” quality we always talk about in Czech styles is here in full force, with a pleasant spice that carries through to the aftertaste.
It’s smooth, crisp, and immensely drinkable. This Czech Amber Lager is a solid addition to our Jar of Destiny brews, and we highly recommend giving this style a shot in your own homebrew setup. Grab a big pretzel, maybe some sausages, and enjoy!
Brew ON!
Links To The Jar of Destiny Series Results
Check out the British Strong Ale post
Check out the Black IPA post
Check out the International Amber Lager post
Check out the Belgian Tripel post
Check out the Double IPA post
Check out the Kölsch post
Check out the English IPA post
Check out the Wood-Aged Beer post
Check out the Belgian Golden Strong Ale post
Check out the American Amber Ale post
Check out the German Pils post
Check out the Brett Beer post
Check out the Munich Helles post
Check out the Imperial Stout post
Check out the Foreign Extra Stout post
Check out the Belgian IPA post
Check out the Eisbock post
Check out the Czech Dark Lager post
Check out the California Common post
Check out the American Light Lager post
Check out the Pale Kellerbier post
Check out the Belgian Pale Ale post
Check out the Trappist Single post
Check out the Classic Style Smoked Beer post
Check out the Czech Amber Lager post