Unlocking the Hidden Depths of Lager
There’s a time and place for every beer. I love the intricate, layered flavors of a carefully crafted saison or the deep complexities of a barrel-aged stout. But sometimes, nothing hits quite like an ice-cold pint of Tennents. That’s right—I said it. For all my love of craft beer, I’m not a snob. Beer isn’t just about what’s in the glass; it’s about the moment, the people, the atmosphere.
Lager has provided me with so many fond memories over the years. From bonding with new friends at university over beer pong and off-brand Budweiser, to drinking Old Style at Wrigley Field—the official beer of the Chicago Cubs back in the day. The combination of summer sunshine, good friends, and cold, mediocre beer made the moment so perfect that we forgot the Cubs hadn’t won a championship since 1906!
The world of lager is far bigger than most people realize. While mass-produced versions dominate the taps in pubs across Scotland, a growing number of independent breweries are treating lager as an art form rather than just an efficient, industrial product. These beers take time, patience, and skill—proving that lager can be just as nuanced, exciting, and rewarding as any other style.
Exploring Independent Lager Breweries
This week, I’m diving into some of the best independent lagers out there—beers that respect tradition while pushing boundaries, brewed by people who care about every step of the process.
Newbarns – Lite Lager
One challenge with beer is that it can be brewed anywhere, at any time, with any ingredients. Sometimes, that means we lose a sense of place—an individuality that connects a beer to where it’s made. However, some breweries are putting more focus on using locally sourced ingredients, allowing us to taste the terroir—a term borrowed from wine that refers to how local climate, soil, and ingredients shape a drink’s flavor.
That’s exactly what Newbarns are doing. Based in Leith, Edinburgh, they’ve carved out their niche by using locally sourced heritage malt and brewing simple yet exceptionally high-quality beers. Whether it’s pale ales, stouts, or, in this case, lager, their focus on raw ingredients and precision brewing makes all the difference.
Most recently, I was blown away by their Lite Lager. Why? Well, I’m not going to lie—the name made me nostalgic for the “lite” beers I used to drink while living in America. But let’s face it, this beer is far from those underwhelming lagers. Even at just 3.4% ABV, this little beer packs a big punch. Brewed using 100% Scottish-grown Golden Promise barley, it has a robust malt character and a gentle sweetness that enhances its body and mouthfeel. This beer is “lite” by category but a heavyweight when it comes to taste.
Simple Things Fermentation – Twisted Pilsner
If Newbarns Lite Lager is a boxer punching above its weight, then this next beer is an MMA fighter with loads of tools at their disposal—combining local ingredients, small-batch imported hops, and creative brewing to create a pilsner that’s as dynamic as it is refined.
This is the second time I’ve included Simple Things Fermentation on this list, so you can tell they’re a favorite of mine, and their Twisted Pilsner is a regular in my beer fridge.
A classic pilsner should be a perfectly balanced beer—light, crisp, and refreshing, with a solid bready malt backbone. At the same time, it should be counterbalanced by hop bitterness and the distinct flavors of European hops, evoking notes of grass, pepper, and spice. And yes, Twisted Pilsner nails all of that, but with one unique twist: the addition of Kazbek hops. Developed through a hop breeding program that crossed the classic Czech Saaz hop with a wild Russian variety, Kazbek brings a modern, vibrant citrus finish to the traditional pilsner profile. It’s like Jimi Hendrix reimagining Bob Dylan’s All Along the Watchtower—taking something familiar and giving it a revolutionary, electrifying spin. This hop adds just the right amount of flair to Twisted Pilsner.
Utopian – Rainbock
If the last beer wasn’t enough to shake things up, then this next beer is bound to rock your world. Weighing in at 7% ABV, Utopian Rainbock is significantly higher in alcohol in comparison to most macro-produced lagers. And yes, even at this ABV, this beer is still classified as a lager.
There’s a common misconception that all lagers must be 4-5% ABV and straw-yellow in color, but that’s far from the truth. In reality, lagers can range from 3% to upwards of 8% ABV and can be yellow, amber, or even brown in color. The only defining characteristic of this category is the type of yeast used—lager yeast. Yeast is a complex subject in its own right, responsible for creating alcohol, carbonation, and flavor. In the case of lager yeast, it’s known for producing dry, crisp, and clean flavors.
Utopian Rainbock is a perfect example of a lager with a twist—it takes everything we love about a lager and amplifies it with higher alcohol content. A higher ABV means more ingredients, and therefore, more flavor. Instead of the usual light, cooked bread notes found in many lagers, this Maibock style brings a richness reminiscent of undercooked bread or freshly proofed dough. Its texture, mouthfeel, and body are truly unmatched. Proceed only if you’re ready for something bigger and bolder than the typical lager.
Each of these beers highlights a different side of lager—whether it’s clean and classic, strong and malty, or subtly unconventional. They prove that lager is far from just a default choice, and when brewed with care, precision, and the right ingredients, it’s an exciting, carefully crafted experience.
Lager has a unique way of connecting us to the past—whether it’s those early, carefree days with friends, or a well-earned pint after a long day. It’s the beer that’s been with us through moments of celebration, sports victories, and quiet conversations. And as we explore the world of independent lagers, it’s clear that there are still plenty of memories yet to be made.
So, I’ll leave you with this: What are the beers that have become part of your memories? Which ones take you back to a special moment, like a summer day with friends or a favorite pub where you felt at home? Next time you crack open a lager, I hope you remember that it’s more than just a drink—it’s part of your story.
Grunting Growler is located at 51 Old Dumbarton Road in Glasgow and serves a selection of more than 300 craft beers, natural wines, and ciders.
For more information visit gruntinggrowler.com or search for @gruntinggrowler on Instagram.
