Although the name isn’t as awesome, I’d say Pils has a leg up on it’s cousin Optimator. Both can be found in 16.9 oz. bottles at Gelson’s for $2.59.

Spaten (which is German for ‘spade’) is brewed in Munich by the same people who make Franziskaner. Can’t make it to Munich for a tour of their brewery? Their website offers an online virtual tour, a reasonable alternative if you haven’t budgeted for any Beer Tourism this year. (Dang!)

Spaten Pils pours a light straw yellow, with a quickly diminishing head and almost no bubbles. Has a light malty smell, a little earthy, a little spicy. The flavor is crisp, malty, and clean, with a bitter finish. Medium body, with light to medium carbonation.

While I didn’t go crazy over it today, I still think this beer would be an excellent choice to accompany some greasy pub food.

* Appearance: 2/3
* Aroma: 9/12
* Palate: 4/5
* Flavor: 14/20
* Overall: 7.5/10

Rating: 3.65