Hey, beer lovers! Today, we're going to provide a quick and simple overview of craft beer styles. We'll explore some of the most popular and unique brews, learn about their characteristics, and how they differ from one another. So, grab your favorite beer and let's get started!
Ale vs Lager
First up, let's discuss the two main categories of beer: ales and lagers. Ales are typically fermented at warmer temperatures and use top-fermenting yeast. This results in a wide range of flavors, often with fruity or spicy notes. Lagers, on the other hand, are fermented at cooler temperatures with bottom-fermenting yeast. This leads to a cleaner, crisper taste, perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing brew.
The Great IPA - India Pale Ale
One of the most popular craft beer styles: the India Pale Ale, or IPA. Known for its hoppy bitterness and often high alcohol content, IPAs come in various sub-styles, including West Coast, East Coast, and New England. These beers often showcase citrus, pine, or tropical fruit flavors, making them a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts.
Stouts and Porters
For those who enjoy darker, more robust flavors, stouts and porters are the way to go. These beers feature a rich, dark color and are known for their roasted malt flavors. Stouts often have hints of chocolate, coffee, or even caramel, while porters lean more towards toffee and nutty flavors. Popular sub-styles include the creamy Irish stout, the robust American stout, and the dessert-like milk stout.
Saison and Farmhouse Ales
If you're in the mood for something a little more rustic, saison and farmhouse ales are a perfect choice. Originally brewed on Belgian and French farms, these beers are characterized by their earthy, fruity, and spicy flavors. They often have a dry finish and a moderate level of carbonation, making them perfect for pairing with a variety of foods.
Sour Beers
For fans of tart and tangy flavors, sour beers are a must-try. This category includes brews like lambics, goses, and Berliner weisses. Sour beers are created through a unique fermentation process that introduces wild yeast and bacteria, resulting in a complex, acidic flavor profile. These beers are often fruity and can range from mildly tart to mouth-puckering sour.
Well, there you have it, folks! We've explored just a few of the many craft beer styles out there, each with its own unique flavors and characteristics. Remember, this is just the tip of the iceberg, so don't be afraid to branch out and try something new! If you want to learn more then subscribe to our mailing list and our social channels. We will be doing videos on each style as we move forward.