Beer is one of the world's oldest and most widely consumed alcoholic drinks, and it comes in various forms, from stouts to ales to lagers. Despite its universal appeal, there's often confusion about the differences between these types, particularly when it comes to distinguishing between beer in general and lager.

Many people use the terms beer and lager interchangeably, but there are key differences that set them apart. Understanding these can help you better appreciate the varieties and flavours of each drink.

Beer is a broad category encompassing a diverse range of alcoholic drinks made from fermented grains. Archaeologists have traced its origins back to at least 5,000 BC, and it has been a staple in various cultures worldwide. The basic ingredients of beer include water, barley malt, hops, and yeast.

Each ingredient plays a role: water forms the base; malt adds sweetness and body; hops contribute bitterness and act as a preservative; and yeast is the agent that ferments the brew. The process of making beer varies depending on the type of beer being produced, but generally, it involves brewing by steeping a starch source in water and then fermenting with yeast. Brewing beer involves different techniques and ingredients, which can vary significantly between styles. The variety of beers available today is vast, ranging from light golden ales to dark, robust stouts, each offering distinct flavours and aromas.

Lager is a type of beer that is conditioned at low temperatures, and it’s known for its crisp and refreshing taste. The term “lager” comes from the German word “lagern,” which means “to store” – referring to the long maturation process lagers undergo in cool conditions. Unlike ales, which are fermented with top-fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures, lagers use bottom-fermenting lager yeast that settles at the bottom of the brew. This yeast works slowly and at cooler temperatures, typically between 7 and 13 degrees Celsius. Lager fermentation occurs at these cooler temperatures and contributes to the distinct characteristics and extended maturation period of lagers. This method results in a cleaner, smoother beer that can range from sweet to bitter, often with high clarity and a light-to-medium body.

Pale lager, such as traditional German Helles, is pale, clear, full-bodied, mildly sweet, and less bitter than Pilsner-style lagers. The process of lagering was developed in Central Europe in the early 15th century, and it has since spread around the world to become the dominant brewing method for commercial beers, influencing popular styles such as Pilsners, Helles, and session lagers.

Lager beers encompass a variety of styles, each with its own distinct characteristics and brewing techniques. These beer styles offer different sensory experiences and flavour profiles, ranging from the light and crisp Pilsner to the robust and malty Bock. Here’s a closer look at some popular types of lagers:

●     Pilsner: originating from the Czech Republic, Pilsners are light in colour and feature a crisp, refreshing taste with a balanced hop bitterness. They are one of the most popular lager styles worldwide.

●     Helles: a German-style lager, Helles is pale and golden with a slightly sweet, malty flavour. It’s less hoppy than a Pilsner, focusing more on the malt character.

●     Craft lager - many British microbreweries produce unique craft lagers that experiment with local ingredients and innovative brewing techniques.

●     Dry hopped lager - a modern take where lagers are infused with vibrant hop aromas and flavours through dry hopping.

●     Session lager - these are lighter in alcohol, making them perfect for extended drinking sessions without overwhelming the palate.

Ales are known for their complex flavours and aromatic qualities. Here are some common ale styles:

●     IPA (India pale ale): known for its strong hop character, IPAs are usually bitter with floral, citrus and pine notes. There are several types of IPAs, including English, American and New England styles, each with distinct characteristics.

●     Stout: stouts are dark, rich and creamy beers with flavours of coffee, chocolate and roasted malt. Varieties include dry stouts, oatmeal stouts and imperial stouts, which have a higher alcohol content and a fuller body.

●     Porter: similar to stouts but generally lighter in body and sometimes sweeter. Porters offer chocolate and caramel flavours without the intense roastiness of stouts.

●     Pale ale: these are generally lighter in colour and alcohol content compared to IPAs, with a balanced profile of malt and hops. The flavours are less intense, making them quite drinkable.

There are a few common myths about beer. For example, some people think all dark beers are ales and all light beers are lagers, but that's not true! The colour of the beer comes from the malt used, not the type of beer. Another myth is that ales are always better than lagers, or vice versa. In fact, both can be high quality and enjoyable; it all depends on your personal taste and the skill of the brewery.

Understanding the differences between beer types, especially between lagers and ales, helps you choose better when you're buying or tasting beer. Knowing what makes each type unique lets you better match your beer to your taste or to the food you're eating. For example, the crispness of a Pilsner might go well with seafood, while the rich flavour of a Helles could complement a hearty stew.

Now that you know more about the differences between beer and lager, you can enjoy and appreciate each one more. Whether you prefer the clean taste of a lager or the robust flavours of an ale, there’s a beer out there for everyone.

Explore the variety of lagers and ales we offer at Best of British Beer - browse our huge range to try something new or pick up an old favourite.