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Lager is the youngest member of the beer family, although it has been brewed for about 500 years this is a a fairly short time comparded to ale, which has brewed for the last six thousand years. The lager yeast was discovered by accident when ales which were put into storage in cold caves continued to ferment. The word Lager was actually derived from the German word lagem which means to store. It was not until 1842 when a lager that would be recognised today was invented, when Joseph Groll combined the lager yeast with soft water and pale malt to make the first Pilsner. The vast majority of lagers brewed all around the world are pilsners.

The differences between lagers and other beers are due to the yeast used in the production. Whilst all other beers are fermented by use of a yeast which sits on the surface of the beer, the yeast used in lager sits at the bottom of the liquid. Lagers are brewed at much colder temperatures than ales and need to be left to store for longer before drinking.

Lagers are the only beers not classed as Ales. They are normally lighter in colour than ales and do not have the malty taste of ale. They are carbonated, almost fizzy and feel lighter as a drink. Lager should be served cold and in a glass with straight sides. European lagers can be served with as much as half the glass being taken up with head, British or American should be served in pints with a minimal head.

When choosing a Lager there is little variety in the big brands, however some of the smaller breweries offer more unusual lagers. Unlike ale, where you can find real ale pubs, specialty lagers are only available in bottles in most countries. The greatest differences are found in lagers from different countries so if looking for a change it is best to go for something exotic

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