How to Categorize Beer

Not all beer is made the same. Just like wine, there are a variety of styles, methods and flavors that go into its creation. There is, however, a general way in which beer is organized. Follow these steps to categorize beer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider fermentation methods. In general, beer is organized into 2 general categories—ales and lagers—depending on where the yeast works during fermentation. Ales use a top-fermenting yeast method of brewing and ferment at higher temperatures than lagers which utilize bottom-fermenting yeast.

2. Organize lagers by noting the different styles. Typically, lagers fall into 1 of 4 types—American pale lager, which is light in color with high carbonation such as Budweiser or Coors; pilsners, which is also light in color but more bitter than American pale lager; light lager, light hops and barley which has fewer calories and a lower alcohol content; and dark lager, made with roasted barley and hops for a dark color and full, rich flavor.

3. Categorize ales by breaking them down into 1 of 3 main styles—brown ale, porter and stout. Brown ale is actually red or copper in color and is the mildest of all ales. Porters are dark and full-bodied with a strong barley flavor. Stouts are dark and rich, almost black in color, and feature very strong barley and hops flavors.

4. Recognize that not all beer fits into the general categories. Though ales and lagers dominate, there are thousands of variations among brewers and within different countries that utilize unique ingredients like fruits, wheat and spices to produce new and original flavor combinations.

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