We Can Be Friends x Ghost Czech Lager – A Collaboration Inspired by Classic Czech Brewing

Collaboration has become one of the most exciting parts of the alcohol-free beer movement, bringing together creative brewers with a shared goal of producing beers that rival their full-strength counterparts. We Can Be Friends is a great example of that approach. Rather than operating as a traditional brewery, it’s a collaborative project that partners with independent breweries across Europe to create alcohol-free beers inspired by classic beer styles. Each release showcases the expertise and character of a different brewing partner, resulting in a range that celebrates both heritage and innovation.

For this release, We Can Be Friends has teamed up with Ghost to produce a Czech Lager, taking inspiration from the crisp, beautifully balanced pale lagers that have made the Czech Republic one of the world’s great brewing nations. Brewed with traditional Czech hops and quality malts, it promises a clean malt backbone, delicate floral and spicy hop character, and the refreshing finish that defines the style all while keeping the alcohol at just 0.5% ABV.

Czech lagers have earned their reputation through simplicity executed exceptionally well, where premium ingredients and careful brewing create a beer that’s both refreshing and full of character. Capturing those qualities in an alcohol-free beer is a challenge, making this collaboration all the more interesting. With We Can Be Friends providing the vision and Ghost bringing its brewing expertise, I was keen to find out whether this partnership could deliver an authentic taste of one of Europe’s most iconic lager styles.

Verdict My Review: First Sip Impressions 

Aroma

A clean, inviting aroma with light floral hops, fresh cereal malt and a subtle herbal note. It’s delicate rather than bold, which is exactly what you’d hope for from a Czech-inspired lager.

Appearance

Pours a bright golden colour with excellent clarity and a generous white head that lingers well. The steady stream of carbonation gives it a fresh, lively appearance.

Taste & Mouthfeel

The first sip delivers a crisp malt backbone that’s quickly followed by gentle floral and spicy hop notes. 

There’s a pleasant bitterness that adds authenticity without overpowering the beer, while the carbonation is soft and well judged.

The body is fuller than many alcohol-free lagers, coating the mouth nicely and giving the beer a satisfying, rounded mouthfeel. It’s clean, refreshing and remarkably easy to drink.

Verdict

I initially picked up Ghost Czech Lager because the can design stood out on the shelf simple, distinctive and a little different from the norm. Thankfully, the beer inside lives up to the packaging.

This is an impressive collaboration that captures many of the characteristics you’d expect from a traditional Czech lager. It’s crisp, refreshing and nicely balanced, with enough malt sweetness and hop character to keep things interesting without ever becoming heavy.

My only criticism isn’t really about the beer itself availability. Since trying it, I’ve struggled to find it back in stock online. Hopefully that’s a sign of its popularity rather than limited production, because it’s one I’d happily buy again.

Share your thoughts in the comments — and check out more alcohol-free beer reviews at ModestDrinker.com!