Java Licht

Java Licht was the low-gravity, easy-drinking lager variant of the Nederlandsch-Indische Bierbrouwerij range in Surabaya, Dutch East Indies. Introduced alongside the Java Pils from the brewery's opening in November 1931, it was designed as the lighter, more accessible everyday drinking option for the colonial Dutch community and local market — lower in alcohol and body than the flagship Java Pils, making it well suited to the tropical climate of Java. Like all beers at the brewery, it was brewed using the Nathan method to prevent tropical infection. Heineken acquired a majority stake in the brewery in 1935, and in 1937 the entire Java range was absorbed into the Heineken brand identity as the brewery was renamed and the product line modernised. The Java Licht name disappeared at that point, replaced by Heineken's Light Lager Beer.