Types of Beer Part 1
The Heart of the Brew
Now that we have covered the basics of beer, let us dive a little deeper. In this article, I will introduce you to different beer styles and how they compare. When we encounter names like Pilsner, Weizen, Witbier, Pale Ale, IPA, Stout, and more, what makes them different? Let us break it down together.
To better understand beer categories, it helps to start with the most important factor: the yeast. In general, there are two main types used in beer production: Lager Yeast and Ale Yeast. These two families of yeast play a huge role in how a beer looks, smells, and tastes.
Once we categorize beer by yeast type, we get hundreds of styles that differ in color, aroma, and flavor depending on the ingredients and intention of the brewer. No matter how many flavors or styles there are, yeast remains the heart of beer classification. That is because each yeast strain works differently, leading to distinct results in the final brew.
Lager Yeast
Lager yeast is probably the one you are most familiar with, as nearly 95% of the beers sold in convenience stores are brewed with this type of yeast. For many of us, this is the style we grew up drinking. Lager yeast is typically used to brew golden, crisp, and refreshing beers that are easy to drink and widely approachable.
Did You Know?
Many people think lager yeast only produces pale, light-bodied beers, but that is not true. It can also be used in darker styles like Schwarzbier from Germany, which looks similar to a Stout but is brewed with lager yeast instead of ale yeast.
Lager Beers
Lager yeast produces light, crisp, and refreshing beers that are perfect for easy sipping on any day.
Ale Yeast
Ale yeast may be less familiar to casual drinkers in Thailand, where local commercial breweries have traditionally focused almost exclusively on lager production. It was not until the past decade, when craft beer from overseas started gaining popularity here, that ale yeast became more widely recognized.
Ale yeast creates more complex aromas and flavors, often with distinctive fruity or spicy notes, thanks to natural chemical reactions during fermentation. These give the beer a unique and sometimes surprising character. Stout beers, known for their dark and rich appearance, also rely on ale yeast during fermentation, showing just how versatile this yeast type can be.
Did You Know?
One great example is Weizenbier from Germany. It is known for its distinctive banana and clove aroma, which many assume comes from added ingredients. In reality, these intricate flavors are produced entirely by the ale yeast strain.
Ale Beers
Ale yeast brings out rich flavors with fruity or spicy tones, offering more variety and depth in every sip.
Other Factors in Beer Styles
Beyond yeast, beers can also be categorized by color, alcohol level, and additional ingredients. In the next part of this series, we will explore more ways to identify different beer types. Stay tuned!
TIME2DRINK
Different Vibes for Your Moment
There are many more beer styles waiting for you to discover, beyond just lagers and ales.
WRITTEN & COMPILED BY Nuttorn Wongpoom
