A lager is a type of beer that is fermented and conditioned at low temperatures. It’s one of the two main categories of beer, the other being ale. The primary difference between lagers and ales lies in the type of yeast used and the fermentation process.

Lagers are typically brewed with bottom-fermenting yeast strains (such as Saccharomyces pastorianus) that work best at cooler temperatures, usually between 45–55°F (7–13°C). This yeast settles at the bottom of the fermentation vessel during the brewing process. The fermentation process for lagers generally takes longer than ales, usually several weeks to months.

The term “lager” comes from the German word “lagern,” which means “to store.” Traditionally, lagers were stored in cool cellars or caves for an extended period, allowing for a smoother, cleaner taste to develop. They often have a crisp, clean, and refreshing flavor profile, although there are various styles of lagers ranging from light and mild to dark and robust, such as pilsners, helles, bocks, and dunkels.Common characteristics of lagers include a lighter color, a clean taste with a balanced bitterness, and a notable carbonation level.

Some popular lager brands include Budweiser, Heineken, and Stella Artois.

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