Beer is the most widely consumed alcoholic beverage in the world, and dates back to some of the earliest known civilizations in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. From light lagers to heavy porters, fruity Californian IPAs to smoky German rauchbier, and low-alcohol bitters to wine-like tripels, there is truly something for everyone.
Some interesting facts about beer:
- The most common type of beer is lager. Its share in the world consumption reaches up to 80%.
- The popular beer snack of chips, is believed to have been invented by accident. A chef named George Crum, in response to the tycoon's criticism that his potatoes were "too thick" sliced paper-thin potatoes and fried them. But the dish tasted good to the tycoon and his friends. After a while, the chips became the most popular dish of the restaurant where George Crum worked.
- International Beer Day is celebrated on the first Friday of August. The first Beer Day was held in 2007 in the U.S.
- Every year, Germany organises the biggest beer festival in the world, Oktoberfest. About 6 million people visit the festival.
Types:
ALE: Ale refers to warm-fermented beers as opposed to cold-fermented lagers. Within the category lie almost all of the traditional British beers, as well as many from around the world. They are often distinguished by their colour, which varies based on the mix of malted grain used.
Types of ALE beer:
Golden/Blonde/Amber/Red/Brown/Dark, Bitter, Mild, Scottish, Pale, IPA aka India Pale ale
LAGER: Lager is a relatively recent invention. Brewed at lower temperatures than ale, the most common style is a crisp and light-tasting pale beer.
STOUT/PORTER: They are dark beers, usually with a weighty mouthfeel and a higher ABV – Imperial Stouts can get break the 10% barrier on occasion and should be approached with care.
OTHER GRAINS:
Rye - rye produces very thick, sticky and porridge-like mashes with spicy and fruity notes at the end
Wheat/Wit/Weizen - yeasty and wheaty flavour, flavoured with fruit and spice
