This Friday, August 5, International Beer Day is celebrated, the most consumed beverage in the world. One of the main classifications divides them between Lager or Ale, depending on their fermentation temperature. In turn, each group can have subdivisions of blonde, dark or pale beers. At BioBioChile we explain the main differences between each one and what foods to consume them with.
Smooth or robust; light or full-bodied; light or dark. This Friday, August 5, the international beer daythe most consumed alcoholic beverage in the world and noted for its versatility of flavors and presentations.
Although during the last years in Chile, has increased the number of people who drink this ancient concoction, it may be that many still do not know the differences between the different types of beers. For this reason, and to commemorate their day, BioBioChile explains how they differ.
international beer day
Beer is a non-distilled alcoholic beverage, generally produced from water, hops, yeast and barley (or malt). There are antecedents that allow us to estimate its origin between 4,000 and 3,000 BC.
According to figures from StatesmanBeer –drink that celebrates its International Day this August 5– is the most consumed alcoholic concoction in the world (more than 174 billion litres), far surpassing the second place: perry cider and rice wine (43.6 billion litres).
This fermented drink usually has between 4% and 6% alcohol per liter, but can reach up to 20%.
International Beer Day: differences and what foods to accompany them with
There are different methods to classify the different types of beer, such as its origin, appearance, ingredients and the brewing procedure. But the simplest and most used is graduation.
According to this aspect, they can be divided into low-temperature fermentation, commonly called “Lager”, and high-temperature fermentation, or “Ale”.
Regarding its pairing in gastronomy, that is, with what foods to accompany the beers, if used correctly, it manages to highlight the flavors and characteristics of each one.
Thus, all foods, from vegetables to meats and desserts, go well with the right beer, according to Taf Beerfrom Mexico.
In this sense, Lager-type beers are smooth and refreshing, without strong flavors, which is why they are ideal for pairing with: spicy dishes, strong sauces, pork, fish, paellas, pasta, soft meats, cakes and sweet biscuits.
On the other hand, Ale-types go well with roasted or grilled meats, seafood, mushrooms, and aged cheeses. Therefore, choose well with what food you will celebrate the international beer day.
Bottom fermentation beers or Lager
Low fermentation beers or Lager, use yeasts that ferment at a temperature between 5° C and 10° C. They are sparkling, soft drinks with a pleasant bitterness, according to the Association of Beer Producers of Chile (Acechi).
There are blondes and blacks, as well as “alcohol-free”. They are usually subdivided into Pale (pale) Lager, Vienna Lager or Dark Lager.
Bock: It usually exceeds 6% alcohol and has a dark or brown color. It has a roasted or caramel flavor and there are some variants such as Maibock or Doppelbock. Dark: Its name comes from German and means dark. They are traditional from the Bavarian area and have a characteristic malt flavor. Pilsener (Pilsner): If name comes from its place of origin, in the Czech Republic. It does not usually exceed 5% alcohol and is considered a refreshing beer, within the Pale Lager group. Schwarzbier: This beer is what is commonly known in Chile as Malta. It has a slightly sweet taste and does not exceed 5% alcohol. viennaTaste: Characterized by its reddish brown or copper color with medium body and slight malt sweetness.
Bottom fermentation beers or Lager
These are beers that ferment at high temperatures –between 5°C and 25°C– and are characterized by having a stronger flavor and greater body (consistency). Of course, in many cases they are more bitter, since they usually contain more hops.
Amber aleAppearance: It has a reddish color and fruity notes, which are what most characterize it. Red aleAppearance: It is native to Ireland and its color and flavor come from roasting barley. Stout Beer: Peculiarly dark, it is a classic of Great Britain and Ireland, with Guinness being one of the most recognized worldwide. They usually have between 7% and 8% alcohol. Porter : Its name comes from the carriers (portar) of London in the middle ages. They are more bitter with chocolate flavors. Avoid itAppearance: Floral aroma and flavor. This beer is drier and somewhat bitter. IPA: Abbreviation for Indian Pale Ale, since it is the version that began to be produced in India, when it was an English colony. It has a bitter taste at first, but then a strong fruity flavor.
