The Different Types of Lagers: A Comprehensive Guide
Summary
In this article, we will explore the various types of lagers, their flavor profiles, and their origins. We will also discuss the Cicerone Certification Program, which educates professionals and enthusiasts on beer style primarily created for the purpose of judging beers in competitions.
Table of Contents
- International Amber and Dark Lagers
- Multi-European Lagers
- Bock Beers
- Cicerone Certification Program
International Amber and Dark Lagers
The article begins by discussing different types of lagers, starting with international amber lagers like Dos Equis Ambe and international dark lagers like Scheinerbac. These lagers have more malt character and a touch of caramel or toast flavor. Cremales are also part of this group and are fermented with ale yeast but have a similar flavor profile to American lagers.
Multi-European Lagers
The next group covered are multi-European lagers with normal alcohol strength, ranging from four and a half to five and a half percent. Munich Helle is a pale lager style from Germany and is the most popular everyday drinking beer in Bavaria. Keller beer is unfiltered and typically younger. Meritsen and Fessbie are related to the traditional Oktoberfest celebration, with Meritsen being a strong, somewhat dark beer and Fessbie being paler in color. Vienna Lager is similar to Meritsen, with a toasty, breadcrust malt flavor. Munich Dunkel is a dark version of Munich Helle, with a toasty, pretzel-like malt flavor. Schwarz beer is a darker version of Munich Dunkel, with light chocolate flavors in addition to the toasty notes. Czech Amber Lager and Czech Dark Lager are both rich malt lagers with a pronounced level of bitterness and a bit of spicy hop aroma.
Bock Beers
Bock beer is a group of four higher strength German lager styles, with the name thought to be a linguistic corruption of beer from the city of Einbeck. Beers labeled as Bocks are usually stronger than average, ranging from 6% to 14%. The four styles are Traditional Bock, Maibock, Doppelbock, and Eisbock.
Cicerone Certification Program
The Cicerone Certification Program is a training program that educates professionals and enthusiasts on beer style, primarily created for the purpose of judging beers in competitions. The program consists of four levels: Certified Beer Server, Certified Cicerone, Advanced Cicerone, and Master Cicerone. The program covers topics such as beer ingredients and brewing processes, beer styles, beer tasting and evaluation, and beer and food pairing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lagers come in a variety of styles, each with its unique flavor profile and origins. The Cicerone Certification Program provides a comprehensive education on beer style, allowing professionals and enthusiasts to better appreciate the nuances of different lagers. Whether you prefer a light American Lager or a rich Czech Dark Lager, there is a lager out there for everyone to enjoy.
