Let’s begin with a little lesson about beer. Before you decide what type of beer you are, we want to educate you on the differences. There are only two main types of beer – lager and ale – and the others that you are already thinking of, derived from these two types.
One of the most significant factors in beer styles is the fermentation process, and some beers simply can’t fit into a specific category.
Some beers can be classified as hybrids, containing both lager beers and ale characteristics. So when we get down to the nitty gritty, a lager is made with one strain of yeast, while ale is made with another. As we talk about types, let’s not mess around, we need to discuss ABV. This acronym means alcohol by volume, which is basically the alcohol content in your beverage.
The typical ABV for beers is 3%-13%, with most types of beer in the range of 4% to 7%. (Wine has around 8%-14% ABV, while liquor has 15%-50% ABV.) The amount of alcohol beer contains affects its taste. The higher the ABV, the more bitter your beer may taste.
There are actually more than 100 styles of beers but let’s be honest, who has that much time to read about them all? If you are a craft brewery connoisseur, then you may have the opportunity to try them all- or already have! If not, we’ve narrowed it down to nine varieties. So, sit back, sip on your favorite beer, take a read, then it’s quiz time!
Amber
Amber beer showcases a medium-high to high malt character with medium to low caramel character derived from the use of roasted crystal malts. It may be characterized by American-variety hops, which lend the amber ale notes of citrus, fruit and pine to balance the sweetness of the malt.
American Lager
American lagers are characterized by lighter bodies, little to no bitterness, and low ABV. Their production focuses less on perfecting complex flavors or achieving high alcohol percentage than on reproducing straw-colored, drinkable consistency.
American Pale Ale
The American Pale Ale is characterized by floral, fruity, citrus-like, piney, resinous American hops, the American pale ale is a medium-bodied beer with low to medium caramel, and carries with it a toasted maltiness.
Blonde Ale
Blonde ales are light in color and generally have a malty aroma. Some variations have a slight hop aroma as well reflecting the hop variety chosen, but the flavor balance should be towards the malty side. They generally are light yellow to gold in color, clear, and brewed with moderate carbonation.
Hefeweizen
The German-style wheat beer is approachable in a lot of ways: It’s cloudy, golden color is visually appealing; it’s round, fruity flavor (without any of the hoppy bitterness of pale lagers) It’s bubbly and drinkable, often featuring hints of banana and clove.
Indian Pale Ale (IPA)
beer that explores the world of fruity flavors that can also come from hops. IPAs are considered hoppier than other beer styles and are known for having a higher alcohol content.
Pilsner
Pilsner (or pilsener or pils) is a pale, golden lager, originally from the Czech Republic. It revolutionized the brewing world when it first appeared, thanks to its seductive golden glow and crisp, refreshing taste.
Sour
Sour beer, also known as Sours, is beer which has an intentionally acidic, tart, or sour taste.
Stout
Stout is a dark, top-fermented beer with a number of variations, including dry stout, oatmeal stout, milk stout, and imperial stout.
QUIZ TIME! Pick two of your top choices that sound like something your taste buds are craving. Now on to your homework! Your assignment is to find a local brewery in your area, and give those two a try! Heck, maybe even get a flight of beers and get wild- try 4!
If you are in Broward County, there are a number of different breweries that offer a variety of deliciously crafted beers in these different varieties. Be sure to check out the ones that we have listed below:
- LauderAle Brewery & Tap Room
3305 SE 14th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
- Yeasty Brews Artisanal Beers
3944 NW 19th St, Lauderhill, FL 33311
- 3 Sons Brewing
236 N Federal Hwy #104, Dania Beach, FL 33004
- 26 Degrees Brewing
2600 E Atlantic Blvd, Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Be sure to test the waters! Visit a couple of different local breweries, especially if you are in South Florida! Broward County breweries provide great vibes, amazing people, delectable food and of course- absolutely delicious craft beer!
About Yeasty Brews Artisanal Beers
Yeasty Brews opened its taproom and kitchen in December 2020 giving people a place to enjoy flavorful craft beers and hard seltzers in a funky, fun, welcoming environment. Founded by the Double D’s, Dan & Denielle, who love bringing awesome people together over delicious drinks and food. Our menu is classic and satisfying with a little something for everyone’s palate. If you are looking for a place to vibe out and chill then stop in today! Your tastebuds will thank you and the beers are delectable.
