Types of Beer

People have been drinking beer for centuries now and since then Beer has evolved into many different types. There are two primary types of beer, Ales and Lagers. These two classes of beer collectively make up thousands of different varieties of beer.

The first difference between these two types is the temperature at which the beer is fermented. Ales are fermented at higher temperatures 18-21 degree Celsius, whereas Lagers are fermented in colder temperature at about 7-11 degree Celsius.

However both Ales and Lagers contain hops, malted barley, yeast and water.

In Ales and Lagers classes there are many different beers. Following is the hierarchy of many types of beer. Though this is not the complete list, since the types could be numerous.

The other difference between these two types is the type of yeast used to brew them. Ale uses yeast that ferments best at warmer temperatures. Ales generally use top fermenting yeast. This means that the yeast floats on the surface for the first few days and then settles on the bottom. While Lager uses yeast that ferments best at cooler temperatures. Lagers use bottom fermenting yeast, which does not float to the surface before settling.

Reference: Drinking Beer