| There are two main ways that you can classify beer; | | | | faster acting yeast, which leaves behind the residual |
| as an Ale, or a Lager. This distinction comes from the | | | | sugars to add to the taste of the beverage. It is |
| temperature of the brewing, which can change the | | | | generally fermented at between 60-75F. |
| way the yeast behaves during its development, and | | | | The quick, hot production of Ale often leads to the |
| subsequently affect the taste. | | | | formation of esters, and other flavorful chemical |
| Lagers use slow acting yeast, and are brewed at a | | | | compounds. This is what gives many types of ale the |
| lower temperature. This process allows the yeast to | | | | sweet, fruity taste that makes them distinct. |
| completely clean the residual sugars from the beer, | | | | Stout is a type of Ale that is distinguished by the use |
| leaving a clean, dry beer. | | | | of roasted Malts and or Barley. These ingredients |
| Generally Lagers are formed over a two part | | | | give Stout a dark color and a rich, full taste. |
| process, with the first half occurring at 45-55F and | | | | Lambic is another type of beer which is brewed |
| the second part occurring at between 32-40F. | | | | Belgium. It is made using wild yeasts, rather than |
| The process of developing Lager was first | | | | cultivated, and this can give Lambic an erratic taste, |
| discovered by Bavarian brewers who stored their | | | | based on the types of yeast being used. |
| beer in cool, dry caves. They noticed that the | | | | Beer is brewed in a wide variety of countries around |
| beverage would continue to ferment under these | | | | the world. While the basic production is the same |
| conditions, giving the beer a cleaner taste. Today pale | | | | across all cultures, there are regional differences |
| lagers are the most commonly consumed beers in | | | | which can affect the taste, and further categorize |
| the world. | | | | the beer. |
| Ales are brewed at a higher temperature, using | | | | |
