Why Rothaus Tannenzäpfle is My Favorite Tap Beer at Fränzel in Goshen

Hello, beer aficionados! This is Franz Brendle, owner of Fränzel in Goshen, New York. If you've visited our welcoming spot in the heart of the Hudson Valley, you know we're passionate about serving authentic German brews that transport you straight to the Old World. Today, I want to shine the spotlight on our star on tap: Rothaus Tannenzäpfle. This crisp Pilsner isn't just a menu item—it's my personal favorite, and for good reason. Let me share why it's a must-try at Franzel, from its ties to my heritage to its exceptional quality and intriguing history.

As someone with deep roots in Germany's Baden-Württemberg region, Rothaus Tannenzäpfle feels like a piece of home poured into every glass. My family hails from the Black Forest area, and during my time living and traveling in Germany, I came to love this gem from the neighborhood—brewed in Grafenhausen, just a short distance from my ancestral stomping grounds. Sipping it evokes memories of lush forests, lively beer gardens, and that warm sense of gemütlichkeit. At Fränzel, having it on tap lets me share that familiarity with our guests in Goshen. It's more than a beer; it's a bridge to my past, and I love recommending it to anyone craving an authentic taste of the Black Forest.

What sets Rothaus Tannenzäpfle apart? It's all in the unwavering quality from the Badische Staatsbrauerei Rothaus, established in 1791. This state-owned brewery uses pristine Black Forest spring water, premium summer barley malt, and aromatic hops from Tettnang and Hallertau. At 5.1% ABV, it's an unpasteurized Pilsner, preserving those vibrant, fresh flavors that pasteurized beers often miss. The profile is spicy and refreshing, with herbal hop notes, a touch of malt sweetness, and a clean, balanced bitterness that lingers just right. It's smooth, aromatic, and endlessly drinkable—ideal for pairing with our hearty pretzels, sausages, or even a casual chat at the bar. In a sea of generic lagers, Tannenzäpfle's purity and craftsmanship make it a standout, earning it a devoted following around the globe.

The name "Tannenzäpfle" adds to its charm—it's Black Forest dialect for "little pine cone," inspired by the bottle's unique stubby shape that mimics a pine cone from the region's evergreen trees. When Rothaus introduced it in 1956, they went against the grain: Back then, beer bottles were typically large 0.7L or 1L formats. Launching a compact 0.33L size was unconventional and risky—success was far from certain, with many doubting if drinkers would embrace such a "tiny" option. But it took off, thanks to its portability and the fresh appeal of a personal-sized pour. The label, featuring "Biergit Kraft" (a cheerful Black Forest figure symbolizing "beer gives strength"), sealed its iconic status. Today, that once-bold 0.33L bottle is commonplace worldwide, from craft beers to everyday favorites—a true innovation that changed the game.

And speaking of milestones, 2026 marks Tannenzäpfle's 70th anniversary! First bottled in 1956 as a pioneering small-format Pilsner, it's been delighting palates for seven decades. At Fränzel, we're celebrating all year with it flowing fresh on tap—perhaps with some special events or pairings to honor the occasion. Come join us in Goshen and see why this beer has stood the test of time.

If you're in the area, stop by Franzel's for a glass or stein of Rothaus Tannenzäpfle. It's my top pick for a reason: quality, history, and a personal connection that makes every sip special. Prost!