Beer is a beloved beverage that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for thousands of years. It’s a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many different forms, flavors, and styles. With so many variations of beer available today, it can be challenging to know where to start or what to order.
In this article, we’ll explore the basic types of beer and what sets them apart. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a novice looking to expand your horizons, understanding the different categories of beer is an excellent place to start. So, grab a cold one, and let’s dive into the world of beer!
Understanding the Different Families of Beer
Beer is a popular beverage known for its refreshing taste, varying styles and flavours. Understanding the different families of beer is important to appreciate the taste and to make an informed choice. There are two basic types of beer: ales and lagers. Ales are made from top-fermenting yeast that produces a fuller-bodied and fruity beer with a higher alcohol content. On the other hand, lagers are made from bottom-fermenting yeast, which gives the beer a cleaner and smoother flavour with a lower alcohol content.
Within these two types of beer, there are many subcategories, such as stouts, porters, IPAs, pilsners, and bocks. Each beer category has its own unique taste and characteristics. Understanding the different beer family types can help you appreciate the differences in taste as well as help you determine which beer suits your taste. Knowing what type of beer is right for you can make your drinking experience even more enjoyable and memorable.
How Malt and Hops Impact Beer Flavor
Malt and hops are two key ingredients in beer and can greatly impact its flavor. Malt is a type of grain that is malted by soaking and drying, which activates enzymes that break down the grain’s starches into fermentable sugars. Different types of malts of varying roasts can be used in beer brewing, such as pale malt, Munich malt, and chocolate malt. The level of roasting of the malt determines the color and flavor of the beer. Pale malt produces lighter, crisper beers while darker malts result in richer, fuller-bodied beers.
Hops, on the other hand, are flowers that are used to add bitterness, flavor, and aroma to beer. The intensity and character of hops can vary depending on the varietal and the time of addition during the brewing process. The alpha acid content of hops determines the levels of bitterness in the beer, while the oils contribute to the aroma and flavor profile. Different hops can impart flavors like floral, fruity, spicy, or earthy notes. The combination of malts and hops used in beer brewing can create a wide range of flavors, from light and refreshing to rich and complex.
Lagers: The Most Popular Type of Beer Worldwide
Lagers are the most popular type of beer worldwide, accounting for approximately 90% of all beer consumed. The term lager comes from the German word “lagern,” which means “to store.” This type of beer is fermented at a low temperature for a longer period, which leads to a smoother taste and crisp finish.
There are a few different types of lagers, including American and European-style lagers. American lagers are lighter in color and flavor than European-style lagers, which have a more complex taste due to the use of traditional brewing methods and higher-quality ingredients. Lagers are typically served chilled and pair well with a variety of foods, making them a popular choice for beer lovers around the world.
Ales: From English Bitter to Belgian Saison
Ales are one of the most popular types of beer and are commonly served at pubs and bars. They are typically brewed using a top-fermenting yeast and are known for their robust flavors. English Bitters are one of the most common types of ale and are brewed with hops, malt, and water. They have a medium-body and a balanced bitter flavor.
Belgian Saisons are also popular types of ale that are brewed with a variety of spices and herbs. They are known for their fruity, spicy, and earthy flavors, which make them an excellent summer beer choice. Other popular ale varieties include Irish Red Ale, Pale Ale, and India Pale Ale (IPA), which are known for their hoppy and bitter flavors. Ales are often paired with food, and are a popular choice to enjoy with burgers and spicy dishes.
Wheat Beers and the Rise of American Craft Beer
Wheat beers, also known as Weissbiers, are brewed with a significant proportion of wheat in addition to malted barley. They originated in Germany and Belgium and are known for their refreshing and fruity flavors. Typically, they are hazy and have a light body with a low to medium hop bitterness. The most common wheat beer styles include Hefeweizen, Dunkelweizen, and Witbier. These styles are often served with a slice of lemon or orange and are popular during the summertime.
In recent years, wheat beers have played a significant role in the rise of American craft beer. Many small and independent breweries have started experimenting with new and innovative wheat beer recipes. These craft breweries have created exciting and unique flavors using various ingredients like fruits, spices, and herbs. The growing popularity of craft beer has also helped spread awareness about wheat beers, resulting in more people trying and appreciating this refreshing style of beer.
Dark Beers: From Porters to Stouts
Dark beers are a stark contrast to their lighter counterparts, boasting a rich and complex flavor profile. These beers are brewed using roasted malts, which gives them their unique aroma and hue. Porters, a popular dark beer, is a great entry point for those looking to explore the world of dark beers. The style originated in England and has a robust, chocolatey taste and a hint of coffee that is balanced by a slight sweetness.
On the other hand, stouts are a heavier and heartier dark beer and often come with a higher ABV (alcohol by volume) percentage. These beers are made from roasted barley, giving them a unique flavor profile that ranges from dark chocolate to coffee bitterness. Irish stouts, such as Guinness, are probably the most iconic type of stout. They are milder than their American or Imperial counterparts and have a creamy mouthfeel that comes from their use of nitrogen instead of carbon dioxide. From its origins in the 18th century until now, dark beers have remained a beloved and flavorful staple in the beer-drinking world.
The Dos and Don’ts of Selecting the Right Beer for Any Occasion
Dos:
1. Consider the occasion: The type of beer you select depends on the occasion. For instance, if you are attending a fancy party, you might want to opt for a sophisticated craft beer instead of a mass-produced lager.
2. Take note of the flavors: Different types of beer have varying flavors and aromas that are designed to suit different palates. If you are serving food with the beer, consider pairing it with complementary flavors.
3. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new beers, particularly if you are fond of craft beers. If you are unsure of what to choose, ask tasting notes from the bartender or Google can help you.
Don’ts:
1. Disrespect the occasion: Avoid selecting a beer that is inappropriate for the occasion. This implies that you shouldn’t bring a six-pack of beer to a formal event or select an expensive craft beer when attending a casual gathering of friends.
2. Choose based on packaging: Good beers come in average packaging, so avoid choosing beers based on the bottle or packaging alone. It’s important to select a beer based on its quality and taste, not based on its packaging.
3. Be too opinionated: Everyone has their opinion, but remember that it’s not your beer you are picking out. Keep in mind that the purpose of selecting a beer is to match appropriately with the occasion and the people you are with. Therefore, avoid being too opinionated or subjective when selecting beer for others at events.
Final Verdict
In the world of beer, there are a wide variety of styles and types to choose from. From light and refreshing lagers to rich and complex stouts, there is something for every taste preference. The basic types of beer can be categorized by their brewing process, ingredients, and flavor profiles, allowing for the ability to find one that suits individual tastes.
While the basic types of beer are a great starting point, it is important to remember that there are many variations within each style. From subtle differences in flavor to unique brewing techniques, every beer has its own story to tell. As the craft beer industry continues to grow and evolve, we can expect to see even more creativity and experimentation in the types of beer that are available. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to explore and discover their own favorite brews.