New Beer Release: Velký Czech Premium Pilsner — Naturally Carbonated, Boldly Refreshing
From the Brew Deck:
Featuring – Velký Czech Premium Pilsner
If you’ve been craving a crisp, clean, and downright satisfying pint, our newest release at Sew Hop’d Brewery in Huntley, Illinois, is going to be your new go-to. Meet Velký — our Czech Premium Pilsner that’s smooth, malty, and ridiculously refreshing. It’s a beer that stands tall in our lineup (which is saying something), and it’s the first of its kind to roll out of our tanks with a completely new process.
A Pilsner That Stands Apart
When we decided to brew a pilsner, we didn’t just want another light beer on tap — we wanted something that truly stood out. Velký brings all the character of a traditional Czech-style pilsner with that signature Sew Hop’d touch. It’s refined yet approachable, complex yet crushable — a beer that feels right at home whether you’re posted up at the bar, hanging out on the patio, or grabbing a 4-pack to-go.
⚙️ The Brewing Process — Naturally Carbonated & Pressure Fermented
Brewing a fruited sour always brings excitement to the brew deck. For this batch, the highlight was folding in hundreds of pounds of cherry puree to give the beer its signature flavor and gorgeous color. It’s a beer that looks as good in the glass as it tastes.
🌾 The Ingredients That Make It Shine
Velký is brewed with Weyermann Floor-Malted Bohemian Pilsner malt — a premium malt that delivers an authentic, slightly sweet, biscuity flavor true to classic Czech pilsners. Balanced with traditional Saaz hops, it carries a gentle floral aroma and a subtle spicy finish that keeps you coming back for more.
The taste? Think malty smoothness with just the right amount of hop snap. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and dangerously easy to drink.
A Quick History of the Czech Pilsner
If you’ve ever wondered what makes a Czech pilsner unique, here’s the short pour: this beloved beer style originated in Plzeň, Czech Republic, back in 1842. It’s known for its golden clarity, smooth malt character, and soft bitterness — a balance that makes it incredibly drinkable and perfectly refreshing.
Unlike the sharper, drier German-style pilsners, Czech pilsners (often called “Bohemian pilsners”) lean a little more on the malt side, giving them a rounder body and a slightly sweeter finish. The use of Saaz hops, one of the world’s four noble hop varieties, gives them that trademark floral, spicy aroma that beer lovers can recognize a mile away.
Czech pilsners have become a staple around the globe, but the best ones still honor that traditional method — open fermentation, natural carbonation, and precise lagering. With Velký, we’ve taken inspiration straight from that tradition, right here in Huntley.
So whether you’re searching for a true Czech-style pilsner in Illinois or you’re simply a fan of crisp, European lagers, Velký delivers that Old World authenticity with a fresh, local twist.
🔥 What to Pair it With
This is a beer that loves bold food — hearty dishes, rich sauces, and a little spice. Grab a Velký with your favorite food truck fare, a loaded burger, or something with a kick (we’re looking at you, spicy wings). It’s versatile enough to pair with just about anything — and good enough to sip on its own anytime, anywhere.
🔥 From the Brew Deck
When we asked the brewers what they love most about Velký, the answer was simple: it’s just easy drinking. It’s the kind of beer that reminds you why you fell in love with craft in the first place.
And here’s a little insider tip — at Sew Hop’d, we do a slow pour on Velký. It’s not just for looks — the slow pour helps trap all that flavor and create that perfectly creamy head you’ll only find in a true Czech-style pilsner.
🎵 Brew Deck Vibes — Joe Walsh on Repeat
Every beer has its soundtrack, and for Velký, it’s Joe Walsh’s “Life’s Been Good.” That laid-back, confident energy pretty much sums up this beer. It’s got personality, it’s got balance, and it’s got just enough attitude to keep things interesting.
Lately, the brewers have been switching between Velký and Hey Hey Hazy, depending on the day — but right now, this Czech beauty is stealing the show.
Try Velký at Sew Hop’d Brewery
Velký is on tap now at Sew Hop’d Brewery in Huntley, Illinois, and available in 4-packs to-go. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, this is the beer you’ll want to grab while it’s fresh.
Come in for a pint, a slow pour, and good vibes — because around here, life’s been good.
Check our events calendar for full listings and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates.
✨ Until Next Time…
Don’t forget to stop by, bring a friend, and taste what we’re brewing. Sentinel Lager is now on tap and available in cans to-go—swing by and experience this heartfelt tribute firsthand.
And while you're here, don’t miss out on grabbing your Sentinel Lager t-shirt—available now in the taproom while supplies last!
Cheers, and we’ll see you at the brewery! 🍻
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