Do you know your Beers?

Is it an Ale or a Larger ?

Ever since we embarked on exploring Craft Beer and matching it with our BBQ SMOKE & GRILL menu, folks have been asking a lot of cool questions about beer.

From why is the beer red, what makes it taste like passionfruit to what makes it taste real bitter.

As well as some of the more “technical” questions, some folks have asked, some more down to earth questions which I’m many others have on the tip of their tongue but not quite sure how to ask it.

To get the ball rolling we decide to take a bit of a beer journey and talks about the basics through to the technical.

As the diagram suggests, Ales are fermented at warmer temperatures, their yeast ferments at the top of the tank and produce heavier, more complex structures.

On the other hand, Lagers are fermented at cooler temperatures, their yeast ferments at the lower part of the tank and produce lighter, crisper and fresher style beers.

By way of example, Balter’s Xtra Pale Ale is of course an Ale….name sought of gives it away, while a XXXX or VB is a Lager.

Ales and Lagers are just the top of the tree, and each family has its own sub groups with their own distinct identities. Whether you are a Pilsner fan from Plzen or a uniquely crafted Ocktoberfest Lager or an IPA or American Pale Ale groupie, there is no lack of choice of Beer from all over the World.

 The infographic gives a great overview to the World of Ales and Lagers