Which of the following would you be most likely to encounter in a Kolsch?

In a Kölsch, moderate bitterness is a characteristic that aligns with its overall profile. Kölsch is a style of beer that originates from Cologne, Germany, and is known for its light body and refreshing qualities. Its bitterness is typically moderate, usually measured by International Bitterness Units (IBUs), which can range from about 20 to 40. This level of bitterness is designed to be subtle and balanced, complementing the beer's floral and fruity notes without overwhelming them.

The color of a Kölsch is usually pale straw to light gold, which differs from the amber to brown hue, meaning the first choice does not fit. Similarly, the Kölsch style does not emphasize caramel malt flavors; instead, it typically uses a pale malt that contributes to a cleaner and more delicate taste. Lastly, Kölsch generally exhibits a lower alcohol by volume (ABV) range, typically between 4.4% and 5.2%, making the elevated ABV option less representative of the style. Therefore, recognizing moderate bitterness as a defining element of Kölsch helps in understanding the nuanced profile of this beer style.