Expand Your Beer Horizons
The word “beer” is often used as a generic noun to describe a cold refreshing beverage. However, for those with more than a passing interest in the drink, a single word is far from sufficient to describe it.
When it comes to types of beer, there are many, many options to choose from. The amount of differing characteristics that can be found is surprising, with most people having a favorite type even if they are not aware of it. From stout to cider, and porter to pilsner, there really is something for everyone.
Most beers, particularly those sold commercially, are processed using similar methods. However, the names given to different styles of beer generally reflect individual characteristics of the product, such as where it originated. Taste, appearance and aroma are just some of the qualities that make different beers unique.
Some common favorites include these:
Lager: Some of the world’s most popular beer brands are lagers. These include American styles including basic lager, all-malt lager, light lager, double pilsner, malt liquor and low-alcohol or “light” beers. Germany and the Czech Republic are seen as the international leaders in the production of them.
Ale: This includes brown ale, American amber, porter and wild ales. Also falling under the category of “Ales” are Chile Beer, Pumpkin Ale, Belgian and French ales, English, German, Irish, Finnish, Scottish and Russian ales.
Cider: While not an official beer, cider is still enjoyed by many beer drinkers. Cider brewed from traditional English farms is a particular favorite of many.
Hybrids: Combining different beer styles or ingredients create this “experimental” beer. Sub-categories include smoked, spiced, fruit and vegetable beer.
Those are the essentials that every serious beer drinker should have already ticked off their beer list. If you’re a beer drinker, you’re likely loyal to a tried and true brand, but remember that variety is the spice of life. There is a world of options available to you, so try something new next time you’re in a beer drinking mood.
To learn more from a home beer brewing expert, and to discover the simple secrets of brewing world class beer from the comfort of your home, visit: http://homebeerbrewingsecrets.com/
Tags: alcohol, alcoholic drinks, Beer, drinks, food, types of beer
This entry was posted on Friday, October 16th, 2009 at 8:02 am and is filed under food and wine. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.