But beer is more than something to drink; it is a cultural experience born from history, geography, and creativity. Styles range from the refreshing lagers of Germany to the full-bodied stouts of Ireland, each with their special flavor profile, way of brewing, and tale.
Belgian Lambic: The Art of Spontaneous Fermentation
For that reason, Belgium is well known for its beer culture, one style being the iconic Lambic. Unlike most beers, whose fermentation derives from some cultivated yeast, elaboration in the beer varieties is made from wild, airborne yeasts and bacteria found in the Senne Valley for Lambic beers. This process-termed spontaneous fermentation allows sour and funky flavors to emerge that are characteristic of Lambic.
Lambic beers often have fruity undertones and can be found in varieties such as Gueuze (a blend of young and old Lambics) and Kriek (a Lambic brewed with cherries). The complex, tart flavor of these beers may not be for everyone, but they are beloved by many who appreciate the artistry behind their production.
Japanese Rice Lager: A Subtle Balance
Japan is a very traditionalist country, and that extends deep into how they brew. Japanese Rice Lagers are light, crisp, and incredibly drinkable; they are usually brewed with a combination of barley malt and rice. The rice imparts a clean, somewhat subtle flavor to these lagers that are different from their European cousins.
While Japanese rice lagers don’t carry on with bold flavors like so many other styles of beer, which would be the beauty of their simplicity. Brands have made this style globally recognized, but variations are being developed by Japanese craft brewers who add more complexity to this refined style.
German Rauchbier: The Smoked Delight
Among iconic styles abound, smoked beer is among Germany’s more curious creations. Native to Bamberg, Germany, Rauchbier has traditionally been made using malted barley dried over an open flame, giving the beer a distinctively smoky flavor.
It can range from subtle, where it may only hint at its presence in a Rauchbier, to types that would make it almost taste like liquid bacon. Something of an acquired taste for anyone who enjoys bold, savory flavors, Rauchbier can be a true wonder, especially when it is paired with smoked meats and cheeses.
Czech Pilsner: The Original Golden Beer
The Czech Republic is the birthplace of Pilsner, one of the most popular beer styles in the world. Its gold color, crisp body, and moderate hop bitterness have earned the right to be considered the norm among many modern lagers.
Classic examples of Czech Pilsners are generically maltier and less bitter, such as the famous Pilsner Urquell. They strike that perfect balance between sweetness from malt and bitterness due to the Saaz hops, making them refreshing to drink any time.
Irish Stout: Dark, Rich, and Velvety
The most famous contribution Ireland made to the world of beer is that of the stout, more pointedly, the dry stout. The stouts of Ireland are dark, rich, and creamy, brewed with roasted barley giving it an apparent characteristically deep black color with espresso-like flavors.
Perhaps the best-known of the stout styles, Guinness has made the style well-known around the globe, even though there are many other great examples out there. These beers are often served from nitro taps, which lend them a silky, smooth texture. Perfect for warming up on a cold evening or paired with heartier dishes, Irish stouts are loved for their intense flavor and soothing nature.
American IPA: Hops, Hops, and More Hops
The American craft beer revolution has given way to numerous variations, but none speak to this movement as much as the IPA or India Pale Ale. Hops play a massive part in American-made IPAs, lending robust aromas and flavors, from citrus and pine to floral and tropical.
Though invented in England, American brewers took IPA to a whole new dimension by trying various hop varieties and techniques of brewing. Today, there are a lot of sub-styles of IPA, from West Coast IPAs to New England-style, particularly hazy and juicy, to Double IPAs with a higher ABV and hopping rate. For hopheads, American IPAs are endless fun.
The Finale:
The exploration of the various kinds of beer is where the journey into flavors, histories, and cultures starts. Every region has its unique touch on brewing, resulting in numerous beer styles that represent everything from local history and ingredients to inventions. Sipping a Japanese rice lager with sushi, having Rauchbier with smoked sausage in Germany, or experiencing the complex layers of a Belgian Lambic-all the diversity in a glass, all the various stories are told by each beer.
Next time you reach for a beer, venture outside your comfort zone. Try one from another country, one from a diverse brewing method, or even one brewed during a different era of beer. The options are endless, as are the choices that you will have.