Beer is the ultimate relaxation drink. It’s perfect for sipping on to help you unwind after a long day at work, and equally just as great to drink casually when out with your friends. Now that the COVID-19 pandemic seems to be easing off, you’re probably ready to head on down to your nearest bar- so now’s never been a better time to improve on your beer knowledge.
Whether you’re new to the world of beer or are looking to branch out away from your usual favorite, it helps to have a basic understanding of all the different types of beer that are available. Besides, who doesn’t love having random beer knowledge that they can impress their friends with? Here is a beginner’s guide to the different types of beer:
Lager
If you’re looking for a beer that is less likely to give you a hangover, then stick to a lager. Lagers are a broad category of beer that are generally lighter and less boozy than other beer types, so they are great for any all-day drinking sessions or keg parties you may have planned. This is particularly true of American style lagers which are often brewed specifically to be light, easy drinking, and crushable.
Some people get lager mixed up with ale, but the difference is that they are made with different types of yeast. Lagers also tend to be a lot lighter in color and generally lower in alcohol, while ales can vary from weak to strong. There are, of course, exceptions to the rules but these are good, general guidelines to follow.
IPA
IPA (India Pale Ale) is another type of beer that can vary widely in flavors. You’ll recognize an IPA as being golden to amber colored, though this can vary depending on how it was made. Flavor profiles can vary from fruity, to bitter, floral, earthy, citrusy, or piney, so it’s no surprise that this is a popular beer choice for people all over the world. If you want to try a tasty IPA, check out this Ottawa brewery that offers delivery on one of their popular New England IPAs.
Belgian
Belgian beers can be dark and heavy or light with spicy notes, so it’s really a versatile beer that can suit all preferences. While Belgian-style beers are becoming more popular, there are only a small number of genuine Belgian breweries in the world. There are endless numbers of American brewed Belgian style beers, but if you want an authentic experience, your best bet is to take a trip to Belgium!
Brown Ale
The definition of brown ale varies from place to place, though most people can agree that this type of beer is top-fermented, darker in color and made with, lightly roasted malt. While British ales are more malty and nutty, American brown ales are more varied and are often described as more bitter tasting.
Wheat
If you’re not much of a beer-lover, then you’re probably best off with a wheat beer. Instead of being bitter tasting, this type of beer is fruity and light, which makes it a lot easier to drink if you’re not a fan of bitter drinks. Be warned though, as this beer can be deceptive- most wheat beers are lighter, but there are some heavyweights that can pack an alcoholic punch! If you’re sensitive to gluten, then (for obvious reasons) this beer also isn’t the best choice. Of course, the same could be said for most beers- the vast majority contain gluten, to some degree.
The above are just a sampling of the world of beer that surrounds us. The above list is far from exhaustive (bock, pale ale, barleywine, amber ale, etc are other styles), but it offers a good starting point to improve your beer IQ. Track down a sample of each of the above styles and find the one(s) that is right for your tastes.
Mmm beer! I guess I drunk wheat beer many many years. By the way, one my friend had a big beer bar, and he gave me a chocolate beer one time!
This is the guide I’ve been searching for, for years. I never realized there were so many different styles of beer.
I only knew beer as beer, I didn’t realize that there were many beer types. This article is definitely useful.
I have been learning more about beer in recent years. I am not a fan but my 21+ boys are pretty into it.
Wow that’s an amazing article about beer. I’ll definitely show this to my brother cuz he love beer and scotch.
Great post, man. The different types of beer are fairly simple, but if you’re new to beer, it can be confusing.
This is such a great resource. Until I read this, I thought beer was beer. I mean, I had heard different names in passing, but I had no idea they really meant anything.
The number of styles is vast and more continue to be created. The Great American Beer Festival, for example, awards beers in more than 100 style categories.
I have tried to like beer, but I simply cant… I love the way it looks when others drink it, that cold beer in a wet glass on a hot day. But no, my tastebuds have made up their mind 😀
You haven’t found the right beer! There is a style to fit any taste preference.
This is good to know. I don’t usually look at classifications of beer, I just go for the brand. Beer in whatever color or taste is still beer and I love it!
I really loved this post. I’ve heard all of these names before, but I never knew exactly what made them different. Thanks!
I don’t drink alcoholic beverages, but it’s nice to know things about them. I will share this with my sister as she loves drinking beer.
This is a great guide for learning the different type of beers. I learned a lot from reading this, I realized I haven’t tried many different beers. Sharing this with my friends!
This guide is perfect for people like me! I never know what I’m getting into when it comes to beer. I just sample things for fun.
Personally, I prefer lighter, less hoppy-tasting beers. Ciders are great, too!
I never realized there are so many different types of beers. I usually opt for wine or a fruity drink nut my brother would love this.
This was so helpful! I’ve always wondered about all the different kinds.
There are a lot of people I know who like to sample beer. There’s a place in Michigan that serves sampler boards and my sister in law loves to try them.
I love IPA. Lager is good too actually. With this post, I really want to buy good beer now!
I love Belgian beers! they are for sure my favorites!
I had a Belgian beer for my first beer, and it was so good that it immediately made me go off and try more varieties of beer. Would love to visit Belgium one of these days, seems like the real thing would be phenomenal.