Heineken has introduced H41, a limited edition lager that has been brewed using a rare yeast recently discovered in Patagonia.

Launched in the US, H41 represents new beer style Wild Lager, a lager beer that is said to feature a fuller taste, with spicy fragrances balanced by subtle fruity hints. 

Heineken noted that H41 is the inaugural brew in its Wild Lager Explorations series.

"[The yeast] was first used 130 years ago by Dr. Elion, a Heineken brewer trained by Louis Pasteur."

Heineken master brewer Willem van Waesberghe said: “Central to the famous Heineken taste is our unique A-yeast. It was first used 130 years ago by Dr. Elion, a Heineken brewer trained by Louis Pasteur. It is still used today. The exact make up of our A-yeast is a closely guarded secret.

“When the ‘mother’ of our A-yeast was discovered in Patagonia, it presented us with a unique opportunity. Using our unrivalled expertise, Heineken’s Master Brewers began to work with the mother yeast to unlock a spectrum of new flavours.

“Our Lager Explorations series was born. The taste of every beer in the series will be surprising and intense, but still balanced and refreshing.”

The new H41 contains 5.3% alcohol by volume (ABV) and is available at select bars and restaurants across the US in 12 oz. bottles and on draught.

Imgae: Heinken launches a limited edition lager. Photo: courtesy of HEINEKEN USA.