Recently Budweiser came out with Budweiser American Ale, specifically marketed as an ale and not a lager.  Is there any difference?  Does it matter?  Well, yes there is a difference even though they are both classified as beer, and whether it matters or not depends on the consumer.  Most people drink beer for the taste and the merry feeling in creates when having more than one.  But for those conscientious beer drinkers who like to know what it is they are drinking, here is a simple difference between a lager and an ale. You don’t need to consult the beer blogs to learn this one.

Beer is only divided into two categories, ale and lager.  All other classifications such as pilsners or stouts are all subdivided into either ale or lager but in the end itâ??s all beer. 

The main difference between lagers and ales is the temperature at which and the manner with which the fermentation process takes place.  Ales typically ferment at room temperature between 64 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit whereas lager ferments at a colder 45 â?? 55 degrees Fahrenheit.   (Fermentation is the process where yeast turns the sugars from the malt into alcohol and carbon dioxide).  The warmer temperature at which ale ferments causes the yeast to produce a higher level of ester which will affect how full bodied and fruity the flavor of the beer is.  (Ester is a by byproduct of the fermentation process and is largely responsible for the nice and round fruity taste of a good ale).  Ale is also known as a top-fermenting beer where the yeast rises to the top and the fermentation process occurs there. 

Lager is known as a bottom-fermenting beer.  With lager a different type of yeast is used, one typically suited to ferment at a lower temperature.  The fermentation process of lager also takes much longer and it is here where it gets its characteristic crisp, clear and round taste; ale tends to taste more robust and bitter.  It is also where lager gets its name from, derived from the German word â??lagerungâ? which means storing, as it has to be stored for longer periods of time than ales.  Another small difference between the two is the color where lagers tend to be lighter in color and ales typically have a darker hue but this rule is not set in stone.

Lager is widely more popular in the United States whereas you will probably find an Irishman preferring an ale but at the end of the day, a true beer lover can appreciate the qualities both have to offer.  There is a beer for every occasion and the wider the variety the better the choice.  Cheers!