This is our second smoked Helles. Last year's batch used 10% smoked malt in a standard Helles malt bill. While it was generally well received it felt like a bit of a shortcut, so to speak. Traditionally a Rauch Helles would just be brewed with normal Pilsner malt however the yeast used to ferment it would be pulled from a smoked bier that used nothing but smoked malt. The yeast itself retains the smoke character and imparts it on the Helles. Since we were brewing a Rauch Marzen already we figured why not just use the yeast in a Helles? The resulting bier is a beautiful blend of traditional German Helles character with just a touch of smoke. Honestly it's a great entry into Rauchbier for those that aren't already smoke bier fanboys/fangirls! We're loving how this one turned out and are curious to hear what everyone else thinks.