Craft brewing, home brewing, and beer tasting have surged in popularity recently, yet the world of beer still revolves around a few fundamental styles. In this guide, you’ll enhance your understanding of the main types of beer, gaining insight into one of the world’s oldest and most beloved beverages.

A “Periodic Table” of Beer Styles

The Origins of Beer

While many countries claim to have brewed the first beer, the earliest evidence of barley beer production dates back to the Sumerians around 4,000 BCE in what is now Iraq. Though modern beer styles developed significantly in Germany during the Middle Ages, ancient civilizations like the Sumerians, Babylonians, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Chinese all played a role in beer’s evolution.

The Beer Market in 2023

According to Statista, the beer segment generated a staggering $610 billion in revenue in 2023, with expectations of annual growth of 5.44% from 2023 to 2027. For entrepreneurs in the food and beverage industry, beer represents a lucrative opportunity. As noted by a Statista analyst, beer is the dominant segment in the global alcoholic drinks market, with the top five companies accounting for about 60% of global volume, half of which is led by AB InBev.

The Three Main Beer Types: Lager, Ale, and Hybrid

Beer is primarily categorized into two types: lagers and ales, differentiated by yeast type and fermentation process. Lagers use bottom-fermenting yeast at cold temperatures (35˚–50˚F), while ales use top-fermenting yeast at warm temperatures (60˚–70˚F). Some beers blend characteristics of both, known as hybrids.

Lager

Lagers are newer compared to ales, fermenting at low temperatures with bottom-fermenting yeast. The global lager market, valued at $328.4 billion in 2021, is projected to grow to $391.1 billion by 2027. Lagers are particularly popular in Europe and Canada.

Pilsner: A type of lager with hard or neutral water, pilsners are hop-forward, dry, and slightly bitter, making them ideal summer beers.

American Lager: Pale and highly carbonated, American lagers are crisp and refreshing, perfect for casual gatherings.

Ale

Ales are the oldest beer style, fermented with top-fermenting yeast at warm temperatures. The global craft beer market, encompassing lagers, ales, and hybrids, reached $117.1 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow to $221.5 billion by 2028.

Porter: Known for its dark color and roasted malt aroma, porters can be fruity or dry, depending on the malt variety used.

Stout: Similar to porters but less sweet, stouts often feature a bitter coffee taste and a thick, creamy head. Guinness is a famous example.

Blonde Ale: Light and crisp with mild malt sweetness and a hint of hops, blonde ales are perfect for summer.

Brown Ale: Ranging from amber to brown, these ales can have chocolate, caramel, citrus, or nut notes, with flavor varying by malt and origin.

Pale Ale: Known for its copper color and fruity scent, pale ales pair well with spicy foods. American Pale Ales (APAs) are hoppier and blend elements of traditional English pale ales with IPA characteristics.

India Pale Ale (IPA): Originally brewed with extra hops to survive long sea voyages, IPAs are now known for their bitter taste and diverse flavors, ranging from citrus to pine.

Wheat: Light and smooth, wheat beers often taste of spices or citrus. Hefeweizens, a common style, are unfiltered and hazy.

Sour Ale: Crafted from wild yeasts, sour ales have a tart flavor that pairs well with tropical fruit and spices. Varieties include lambics, goses, and Flanders ales.

Cooking with Beer

Beer isn’t just for drinking—it’s a versatile ingredient in cooking. Its carbonation and earthy flavors from hops and barley add depth to dishes. Beer tenderizes meat and acts as a leavening agent in baking. Dark beers like stouts and porters enrich stews and braises, while lagers enhance roast chicken and beer-battered fish. Most of the alcohol evaporates during cooking, so your dishes remain family-friendly.

We hope this guide to beer styles has whetted your appetite! To deepen your culinary and beverage knowledge, consider joining the EHL community and explore our courses. Cheers to discovering new brews and flavors!

More Beer Information and Education Series Articles

• What is Bock Beer? Exploring the Bock Beer Style: A Journey from Einbeck to Munich
• What is Lager Beer? Exploring the World’s Most Popular Beer Style
• What is the Difference Between Bock and Lager Beer? Unraveling the Brews: The Distinctive Worlds of Lager and Bock
• Information on Milko Pours
• The Rise of Craft Lagers in Pennsylvania Brewing
• Brewing Prosperity: The Economic Impact of Craft Beer
• The Rise Of Hazy IPAs: Exploring The Juicy Trend In Craft Beer
• Hops, History, and Innovation: The Fascinating Tale of the IPA
• 14 Great High Grade Octane IPAs You Should Be Trying
• The Lifespan of an IPA: Navigating the Freshness of Your Favorite Craft Beers
• East Coast vs. West Coast IPAs: New England Hazy IPAs and How They Differ From West Coast Bitter IPAs
• Embracing the Dark Side: A Guide to Stouts
• Craft Beer Hot Toddies
• Craft Beer and Philosophy
• The Ultimate Guide to Craft Beer Styles: Exploring Flavors from Around the World
• The 7 Main Categories of Beer: A Guide for Craft Beer Enthusiasts

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)

Lukr Side Pull in Action(photo courtesy of Lukr Faucets)

Discover the Side Pull Tap: Revolutionizing Your Craft Beer Experience

If you’re not yet familiar with the side pull tap, you’re not alone. While it’s starting to make its mark in a few breweries in Pennsylvania, it hasn’t quite hit the mainstream craft beer scene just yet. But that’s about to change.

What is a Side Pull Tap?

A side pull draft beer faucet, often referred to as a Czech beer faucet or Lukr faucet, is a unique tool that transforms the way we pour and enjoy beer. Unlike traditional taps, the side pull tap is designed to create a creamy, silky head, which is the traditional way of enjoying a Czech pilsner. The faucet is submerged into the mug, resulting in a sweet, velvety foam that enhances the beer’s flavor and aroma.

The Mechanics of a Side Pull Tap

Lukr Faucets (photo courtesy of Lukr)

At first glance, the side pull tap might look like a standard tap turned on its side, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. The handle is much more delicate than a traditional tap. Each slight movement of the handle changes the flow of beer; every degree of change increases or decreases the amount of liquid being poured into the glass. This precision allows for perfect control over the pour, ensuring a consistent and enjoyable drinking experience.

The Side Pull Tap in Pennsylvania

While the side pull tap may not have fully permeated the Pennsylvania craft beer market, some innovative breweries are leading the charge. These breweries are embracing the side pull tap and its ability to elevate the beer-drinking experience. We recently spoke with two Pennsylvania breweries that have implemented the side pull tap to learn more about its benefits.

Some Pennsylvania Breweries Using the Side Pull Tap:

• Human Robot
• Fourscore Beer Co.
• Stick City Brewing Company
• Wishful Thinking Brewing
• Warwick Farm Brewing
• Bright Path Brewing Company

Benefits of the Side Pull Tap

1. Enhanced Flavor and Aroma: The creamy head created by the side pull tap releases the beer’s aromas and enhances its flavor profile, providing a richer tasting experience.
2. Aesthetic Appeal: The beautiful, silky head of foam adds a visual element to the beer, making it more enticing and enjoyable.
3. Traditional Experience: For fans of Czech pilsners and traditional beer pouring methods, the side pull tap offers an authentic and nostalgic experience.

Spotlight on Lukr and the Milko Pour

One brand making waves with the side pull tap is Lukr, known for its precision and quality. Additionally, the Milko pour—a technique that involves creating a dense foam head that makes up the majority of the glass—is gaining popularity among beer enthusiasts. This method, made possible by the side pull tap, provides a unique and delightful way to enjoy your favorite beers.

The Milko Pour: A Unique Beer-Drinking Experience

Milko pours at Human Robot

The Milko pour is a fascinating technique that’s gaining traction among beer enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate the nuances of traditional beer pouring methods. Originating from the Czech Republic, the Milko pour is made possible by the side pull tap and is a testament to the artistry involved in serving beer.

(See Also: Human Robot Milko Pour)

What is a Milko Pour?

Milko pours at Gusto Brewing in New Jersey

A Milko pour involves creating a dense, creamy foam head that occupies the majority of the glass. Unlike a standard pour, where the beer and foam are evenly balanced, the Milko pour prioritizes the foam, which can make up to 90% of the glass. This technique transforms the beer-drinking experience, offering a unique texture and flavor profile.

How is a Milko Pour Achieved?

The Milko pour is achieved using the side pull tap, specifically the Lukr faucet, known for its precision and control. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Submersion of the Faucet: The faucet is submerged into the mug, allowing the beer to flow gently along the sides.
2. Controlled Pouring: By carefully adjusting the handle, the bartender controls the flow of the beer, ensuring that a thick, creamy head of foam is produced.
3. Patience and Skill: Achieving the perfect Milko pour requires patience and skill. The bartender must be attentive to the handle’s movements to create the desired foam consistency.

Why Try a Milko Pour?

1. Enhanced Creaminess: The dense foam head adds a rich, creamy texture to the beer, making each sip smooth and velvety.
2. Intensified Aromas: The foam head captures and releases the beer’s aromas more effectively, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
3. Visual Appeal: The thick, white foam is visually striking, making the beer look as good as it tastes.
4. Traditional Experience: For those who enjoy traditional beer-drinking methods, the Milko pour offers an authentic way to appreciate a Czech pilsner.

Where to Find Milko Pours

A milko pour at Bright Path Brewing Company

As the side pull tap and Lukr faucets become more popular, more breweries are starting to offer Milko pours. Check with your local breweries to see if they provide this unique pouring method. It’s a delightful way to experience beer, offering a fresh perspective on how beer can be enjoyed.

Incorporating the Milko pour into your beer repertoire not only broadens your appreciation for different pouring techniques but also deepens your enjoyment of the craft. Cheers to discovering new ways to savor your favorite brews!

Conclusion

The side pull tap, along with Lukr faucets and the Milko pour technique, is set to revolutionize the craft beer experience. As more breweries adopt this method, beer enthusiasts can look forward to an enhanced and traditional way of enjoying their favorite brews. Keep an eye out for these innovative taps at your local brewery and prepare to elevate your beer-drinking experience.

Stay tuned for more updates on the latest trends and innovations in the craft beer world right here on our blog. Cheers!

More Links and Information

• Craft Beer Hot Toddies
• Raising the Stakes: Gambling and Alcohol Correlation
• Top Popular Beer Brands
• Embark on a Culinary Adventure: Cooking and Craft Beer
• Philosophy and Craft Beer: A Confluence of Thought and Taste
• Craft Beer Meets Keto
• Unraveling the Brews: The Distinctive Worlds of Lager and Bock
• What is Bock Beer? Exploring the Bock Beer Style: A Journey from Einbeck to Munich
• What is Lager Beer? Exploring the World’s Most Popular Beer Style
• Information on Milko Pours
• The Rise of Craft Lagers in Pennsylvania Brewing
• The Craft Beer Conundrum: Navigating the Troubled Waters of the Craft Beer Industry
• Mastering the Art of Craft Beer Tasting: Your Ultimate Guide to Flavor and Aroma – How to Describe Beer Like a Pro
• Human Robot Milko Pour – Human Robot Milko Pour Invitational (And Information on Milko Pours)
• Discover the Side Pull Tap: Revolutionizing Your Craft Beer Experience

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

Thanks again for reading everyone. Take some time to check out the site, we greatly appreciate it. We have affiliates and sponsors with Pretzels.com and Beer Drop.com, which can save you money on their products if you are interested. Check out our articles on them. Make sure to check out our beer reviews, brewery reviews, Amy’s weekly column, book reviews, hike reviews, and so much more.

As always, thank you everyone for reading! Leave your likes, comments, suggestions, questions, etc, in the comments section. Or use the Feedback – Contact Us – page, and we’ll get right back to you! You can also reach out to us at our direct e-mail address: thebeerthrillers@gmail.com

Thank you for visiting our blog. Please make sure to follow, bookmark, subscribe, and make sure to comment and leave feedback and like the blog posts you read. It will help us to better tailor the blog to you, the readers, likes and make this a better blog for everyone.

We are working on a massive project here at The Beer Thrillers. We are creating a map of all of the breweries across the United States. State by state we are adding maps of all of the different states with every brewery in each state. (We will eventually get to the US Territories, as well as the Canadian Provinces, and possibly more countries; as well as doing some fun maps like a map of all the breweries we’ve been to, and other fun maps.) You can find the brewery maps here:

• MAPS OF BREWERIES

We are also working on a project of creating printable and downloadable PDFs and resources to be able to check and keep track of all of the breweries you’ve been to. So stay tuned for that project once we are finished with the Brewery Maps of the US States.

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. As well as our brand new Tumblr page. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

You can now find us on our Discord Server here: The Beer Thrillers (Discord Server). We’ve also joined LinkTree to keep track of all of our social media pages, as well as hot new articles we’ve written.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

We have partnered with an affiliateship with Beer Drop.com. You can check out that partnership and receive great discounts, coupons, and more here: Beer Drop. Going here and logging in and ordering will help you receive your discounts and coupons as well as help support our page. Thank you for helping to support The Beer Thrillers and to help us maintain the site and blog and to keep it running.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

You can also check out our partnership and affiliation with Pretzels.com, where ordering pretzels and using our affiliate code – AFFILIATE CODE IS THEBEERTHRILLERS20 – will help you get wonderful pretzels and help us maintain and keep this blog running. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

(Thank you for reading. The opinions, thoughts, and expressions of each article posted on The Beer Thrillers represents the author of the content and only themselves. It does not express the opinions, beliefs, or ideas held by The Beer Thrillers or any company in which the author themselves work for. Each piece of written content is written by the creator(s) listed in the authorial section on each article unless otherwise noted. Their opinions, comments, and words on screen do not represent any company in which they work for and / or are affiliated with or any non – profits that they contribute to. Thank you.)