Are you a beer enthusiast looking to deepen your understanding of the different styles available? If so, you’ve likely come across two of the most popular types of Beer that is ale and lager. While both are delicious, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart from each other. In this complete guide, we’ll explore the differences between ale and lager, their brewing processes, flavor profiles, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned beer drinker or just starting to explore the world of craft brews, this guide will give you all the information you need to appreciate the nuances of these two beloved styles. So grab a cold one and let’s dive in to the difference between Ale and Lager.
Basic difference between Ale and Lager
Ale is brewed using a top-fermenting yeast strain that ferments at warmer temperatures (around 60-75°F). This results in a beer with a fuller body, complex flavors, and fruity or spicy notes. Ales can range from light and refreshing to dark and heavy, with styles like pale ale, IPA, porter, and stout.
On the other hand if we talk about the Lager is brewed using a bottom-fermenting yeast strain that ferments at cooler temperatures (around 45-55°F). This results in a beer with a lighter body, crisp and clean taste, and a smooth finish. Lagers are typically less fruity or spicy than ales, and they have a range of styles, including Pilsner, Bock, and Märzen.
Ale vs Lager
| Ales | Lager |
| Top fermenting | Bottom fermenting |
| S.cerevisiae yeast is used | 5 Pastorianus/carlbergensis yeast is used |
| Conditioning done for 7days at 15C | Conditioning done for 3 months at 0C |
| Service temperature 12-14C | Service temperature 6-8C |
| Darker in colour | Paler/Lighter in colour |
| Bitter & Fruity | Less bitter/drier |
| Example - 0ld English-alu, ealu | Example - German (lager). Storeroom, Warehouse |
Now We will see the difference between Ale and Lager in various terms
Difference between Ale and Lager
Brewing process
The main difference between Ale and Lager is the type of yeast used in the fermentation process. Ales are brewed using a strain of yeast that ferments at warmer temperatures, typically between 60-75°F (15-24°C). This type of yeast is called Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and it produces fruity and spicy flavors in the beer. Ales also tend to have a fuller body and a more pronounced hop bitterness than lagers.
Lagers are brewed with a yeast strain called Saccharomyces pastorianus, which ferments at cooler temperatures, typically between 45-55°F (7-13°C). This yeast strain is known for its clean, crisp flavor profile and is often referred to as a “bottom-fermenting” yeast because it settles at the bottom of the fermentation vessel. Lagers are generally lighter in body and have a smoother, more subtle taste than ales.
Price
Generally, ales more expensive than lagers due to the higher cost of ingredients.
Ales are brewed with a top-fermenting yeast strain at higher temperatures, which results in a fuller, richer flavor profile. Above discussion brewing process for ales is also typically shorter than that of lagers, but the ingredients used, such as malted barley and hops, can be more expensive.
Lagers, on the other hand, are brewed with a bottom-fermenting yeast strain at lower temperatures, which results in a lighter, crisper flavor. The longer brewing process for lagers, which can take several weeks, also contributes to their lower cost.
Mainly the price difference between ale and lager may vary depending on the brand, location, and other factors, but in general, ales tend to be more expensive than lagers.
Popularity
In terms of popularity lagers wins the games, generally more popular than ales. This is partly because lagers have a lighter, crisper taste that is often more appealing to a wider range of drinkers. Lagers are also typically more widely available and marketed by larger beer companies.
Taste
Ales are known for their bold and complex flavors, while lagers are known for their light and refreshing taste. The choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the occasion.