A beloved beverage around the world, a staple in the summers, beer has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. This brewed drink has come a long way since its inception and introduction to the world.
Today, you need only stand in front of the alcohol aisle at the supermarket to see that there are so many different types of beer you can enjoy, each with its own unique flavour and aroma.
From light and refreshing pilsners to robust stouts, you can find a beer that suits your preferences. So, what are the different types of beers available to us?
Let’s explore the different types of beer, and hopefully help you find the one for you!
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Ale
Ales are one of the oldest types of beer, known for their rich, complex flavors and slightly fruity or spicy notes. They're brewed with top-fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures, which gives them a bolder, often more robust taste.
1. Indian Pale Ale (IPA)
You’ve probably heard of IPA’s or seen them around, but what does IPA stand for? A type of beer originating in England, IPA stands for Indian Pale Ale.
What makes IPA stand out of the crowd of beers available is the amount of hops it contains.
IPA’s are known for their bitter taste and strong aroma, thanks to the amount of hops used in production. They are also higher in alcohol content.
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2. Wheat Beer
While beer is normally made of malted barley, wheat beer provides an addition of wheat in high proportions in the production process.
This results in a light-coloured yet hazy beer, due to the suspended yeast and wheat proteins. Some producers of wheat beer would opt to include coriander and orange peel spices for an extra kick.
Wheat beer available at minuman.com:
3. Pale Ale
Pale ales strike a lovely balance. They’re hoppy, but not overpowering, with a malt backbone that adds a touch of sweetness. Originally from England, this style laid the groundwork for IPAs.
- Flavor: Mild hops, some caramel malt, slightly bitter but balanced.
- Popular with: Those who want a flavorful beer without too much intensity.
Lager
Coming in at a close second to pilsner is the lager. This type of beer is fermented and conditioned at lower temperatures, producing a crisp and clean taste similar to pilsners.
You may be wondering, what’s the difference between pilsners and lagers then? It’s found in the type of hops used.
While pilsners are made with noble hops, lagers contain a wide variety of hops including Saaz and Hallertau, which are known for their floral and spicy aroma.
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Lager available at minuman.com:
1. Pilsner
Pilsner is a fan favourite when it comes to beer. Where did pilsner come from? Well, it originated in the Czech republic in the mid-19th century.
Today, the pilsner is brewed around the world. Its light, crisp, and clean taste sets it apart from other kinds of beer, and makes it popular for crowds that are looking for a light drink.
Pilsners do carry moderate bitterness in them, because they are made with noble hops.
Popular pilsner brands include Stella Artois, Bitburger, and Pilsner Urquell.
2. Pale Lager
Pale lagers are among the most commonly consumed beers worldwide, thanks to their approachable, easy-drinking nature. These beers are light in body and color, with a subtle malt sweetness and very little bitterness.
They're designed for maximum refreshment, often served ice-cold and enjoyed without too much thought. If you’re just getting into beer or want something smooth and uncomplicated, pale lagers are a great place to start.
3. Amber & Red Lager
Amber and red lagers are a step up in richness and color compared to their pale counterparts. These beers get their distinctive hue from roasted malts, which also lend them a warm, toasty flavor.
Expect notes of caramel, biscuit, and a gentle malt sweetness, all balanced by a clean lager finish. They’re perfect for cooler evenings or when you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier but still easy to drink.
Stout
Compared to lager and pilsner, stout is a dark beer with high alcohol content and a more robust flavour.
Stout is commonly brewed with roasted barley, contributing to a rich and complex flavour profile. Some stouts are sweet, while others are dry, leaving a sour aftertaste.
Under this umbrella category, there are other types of stout beer available, including Irish stout, milk stout, and imperial stout.
Popular brands of stout include Guinness, Old Rasputin, and Milk Stout Nitro.
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1. Oatmeal Stout
Oatmeal stouts are known for their creamy texture and smooth, mellow flavor. The addition of oats to the grain mix creates a silky mouthfeel, while the roasted malts bring flavors like coffee, dark chocolate, and a slight nuttiness.
Despite their dark appearance, these beers are not overly bitter or boozy—they’re more like a cozy blanket in a glass. Ideal for relaxing nights or pairing with rich desserts like chocolate cake or brownies.
2. Imperial Stout
Imperial stouts are the big, bold versions of traditional stouts. They usually have a higher alcohol content and come packed with intense flavors. Think dark chocolate, espresso, dried fruits, and a warming alcohol finish.
Some versions are aged in whiskey or bourbon barrels, which adds layers of vanilla, oak, and spice. These are sipping beers meant to be savored, often shared, and perfect for special occasions or winter nights.
Fruit Beer
Fruit beers are all about fun and flavor. These can be brewed using a base of ale or lager and then infused with real fruit during fermentation or after. The result is a beer that bursts with sweet, tart, or juicy notes depending on the fruit used.
Raspberry, cherry, peach, and blueberry are common additions, and some beers go even further with exotic fruits or blends. Fruit beers can be sweet or dry, light or strong, but they always bring a unique twist to the beer experience. They’re great for those who like a refreshing, flavorful drink with a fruity kick.
Looking for your favorite beer? Minuman.com provides the widest selection of beer. Order now and have your beer delivered to your doorstep with fast delivery.
