What Are The Different Types Of Beer?

In the ever-growing world of beers, bars and restaurants are constantly expanding their beer menus to cater to the diverse preferences of their patrons. Offering an extensive selection ensures there's a perfect drink for every beer lover who walks through your doors. However, with such a wide variety of options, it can be challenging for bartenders and servers to grasp the unique characteristics of each beer.

That's why we've created this comprehensive beer guide to assist you in understanding the distinctive qualities of each brew. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be equipped to make informed beer and food pairing recommendations and effectively upsell your customers.

Beer can be broadly classified into two fundamental types: ales and lagers. The key differentiating factor lies in the specific strain of yeast employed during the fermentation process. Despite its seemingly simplistic nature, the choice of yeast has a profound impact on both the brewing method and the final flavor profile of the beer.

Understanding the fundamental distinction between ales and lagers is crucial for brewers, bartenders , and servers alike. This knowledge enables you to guide your patrons through the diverse beer selection and help them make informed choices based on their preferences. By appreciating the profound influence of yeast on fermentation and flavor, you can elevate the beer-drinking experience at your establishment to new heights.

• Ales: Brewed with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a top-fermenting yeast that ferments at temperatures between 60°F to 75°F. This fermentation process allows for a quicker brewing time and contributes to the complex flavors and aromas associated with ales. Common ale styles include pale ales, India pale ales (IPAs), stouts, porters, and brown ales.

• Lagers: Brewed with Saccharomyces pastorianus, a bottom-fermenting yeast that ferments at cooler temperatures between 35°F to 55°F. Lagers have a smoother mouthfeel and a lighter, more refreshing character, making them ideal for a wide range of beer enthusiasts. Common lager styles include Pilsners, Bocks, and Munich-style lagers.

• Specialty Beers: A diverse category that includes beers with unique ingredients and brewing techniques, such as fruit beers, sour ales, and barrel-aged beers. Specialty beers offer a tapestry of complex flavors and aromas, appealing to those seeking new beer adventures.

Pale ales are among the most popular beer styles worldwide. Known for their golden to copper color, they are brewed with pale malt and ale yeast, giving them a light malt flavor with a hoppy and slightly bitter aftertaste. Pale ales are generally low in alcohol content and easy to drink.

• Types Of Pale Ales: American amber ale, American pale ale, blonde ale, and English pale ale.

• Food Pairings: Spicy foods, savory dishes, and roasted meats.

India pale ales (IPAs) are a type of pale ale known for their pronounced bitterness due to their high hop content. They often have a golden or amber color and a robust flavor profile, with hints of citrus or herbal tones to balance the bitterness. IPAs tend to have a higher alcohol content, making them a stronger beer option.

• Types Of IPAs : American IPA, English IPA, Imperial IPA, New England Style IPA, and West Coast IPA.

• Food Pairings : Fried foods, meats, fish, and poultry.

Originating in Pilsen, Czech Republic, Pilsners is a light gold beer made with malts, hops, and neutral or hard water. They are a popular lager style with a dry, slightly bitter taste and low alcohol content, making them a refreshing choice for summer.

• Types Of Pilsners: American pilsner, Czech pilsner, and German pilsner.

• Food Pairings: Soft cheeses, seafood, poultry, and pork.

Stouts are known for their dark color and thick, creamy head. They often have a heavily roasted flavor, with hints of coffee, chocolate, licorice, or molasses. Stouts are a great choice for pairing with desserts due to their rich and unique flavor profile.

• Types Of Stouts: American stout, Irish dry stout, milk stout, oatmeal stout, and oyster stout.

• Food Pairings: Desserts, grilled meats, and shellfish.

Porters originated in London during the 18th century and are similar to stouts in color but have a crisper taste. They are made with roasted brown malts or barley, providing a toasty aroma and strong notes of chocolate, toffee, and caramel.

• Types Of Porters: American imperial porter, Baltic porter, English brown porter, and robust porter.

• Food Pairings: Smoked foods, barbecue, and desserts.

Brown ales range in color from amber to brown and have a mellow yet flavorful profile. They often feature chocolate, caramel, citrus, or nut notes, depending on their origin. The English version is usually dry and nutty, while the American version is hoppier.

• Types Of Brown Ales: American brown ale, English brown ale, and mild brown ale.

• Food Pairings: Nutty cheeses, red meats, and barbecue.

Wheat beers have a smooth texture and hazy body, with minimal hop presence. The flavor profile can vary depending on the type of wheat used, often featuring citrusy and tangy notes. They are a refreshing choice for a sunny day.

• Types Of Wheat Beers: American wheat, Belgian witbier, berliner weisse, dunkelweizen, and hefeweizen.

• Food Pairings: Salads, fruit tarts, vegetables, and seafood.

Sour ales are brewed with wild yeast and bacteria, resulting in high acidity and a tart, sour flavor. Brewers often add fruits and spices to create a sweet and fruity profile, providing a unique alternative to the bitterness typically found in other ales.

• Types Of Sour Ales: American Brett, American sour, Belgian fruit lambic, Belgian gueuze, and Flanders red ale.

• Food Pairings: Fruit tarts, salads, seafood, and vegetables.

Specialty beers encompass a wide range of unique brews that incorporate exotic ingredients, spices, and innovative brewing techniques. This category offers an exciting sensory experience for those seeking to explore new flavors.

• Types Of Specialty Beers: American black ale, barrel-aged beer, chocolate beer, coffee beer, gluten-free beer, and session beer.

• Food Pairings: Cheese, seafood, meat stew, and roasted vegetables.

Choosing the right beer glassware can significantly enhance the beer-drinking experience. The shape and design of the glass influence the aroma, flavor, and overall enjoyment of the brew. Here are some common beer glasses and the types of beers they are best suited for:

• Pint Glasses: versatile and ideal for many beer styles, such as pale ales, IPAs, and stouts.

• Pilsner Glasses: Tall and slender, perfect for showcasing the clarity and carbonation of pilsners and other lagers.

• Tulip Glasses: Designed for aromatic beers, such as IPAs and Belgian ales.

• Weizen Glasses: Specifically designed for wheat beers, allowing for ample head and aroma capture.

This video provides an insightful overview of different types of beer glasses and how they impact the beer-drinking experience.

Pouring beer correctly is essential for maintaining the beer's quality, appearance, and taste. Here are some tips for pouring different types of beer:

• Pint Glass Pour : Hold the glass at a slight angle and pour the beer slowly, allowing a small head of foam to form. Gradually straighten the glass as you pour.

• Tulip Glass Pour : Pour gently to create a moderate foam head, allowing the beer's aroma to be captured by the tulip shape.

• Weizen Glass Pour : Pour beer at a sharp angle, letting it flow down the sides of the glass. This method creates a thick foam head typical of wheat beers.

By mastering these techniques, you can ensure a perfect pour every time, enhancing the presentation and enjoyment of your beer.

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of different beer styles, glassware, and beer-related terminology, you're ready to make drink recommendations and food pairings with confidence. Use this knowledge to guide your customers or guests and enhance their beer-drinking experience. If your beer list doesn't include some of these beverages, consider adding them to your menu to upsell customers and increase profits.

If you found this guide helpful, don't forget to check out Restaurantware's  beer glasses collection for the perfect glassware to complement your beer experience. Consider subscribing to our newsletter for more tips on beer and related topics. Happy brewing and cheers!