doppelgänger 2 - lichtenhainer weißbier

The Jena beer villages – such as Wöllnitz – were a center of a vibrant tradition in the 19th century. Students, in particular, frequented the many small pubs, as they could escape the watchful eyes of the university and drink to excess in peace, far from the city center. Student fraternities held their revelries in these beer villages, consuming copious amounts of the region’s characteristically crisp, sour wheat beer. The brew was spontaneously fermented and, with its wild, unpolished character, was perfectly suited to such occasions. This special brew was served at the Wöllnitz Talschänke (valley tavern) well into the 21st century, before the brewery closed in 2022. Freigeist Bierkultur (Free Spirit Beer Culture) took up this story: Head brewer Sebastian Sauer isolated a vibrant mixed culture from the sediment of a historic bottle and brewed the first "Doppelgänger" – a modern rebirth of this almost forgotten delicacy.

Doppelgänger 2 continues this project consistently. This top-fermented, sour wheat beer is brewed using barley and wheat malt. A nice connection to the region’s tradition is the malt, which is roasted over cornelian cherry wood.

On the nose, a complex interplay of aromas unfolds: the fresh acidity of unripe fruit, delicate smoke, and a slightly wild note reminiscent of fresh hay and stone fruit. On the palate, Freigeists Doppelgänger 2 is dry, crisp, and refreshing. The pronounced acidity combines with fine fruit notes and the unmistakable funk of wild-fermented beers. A delight!