Fermented slowly at cool temperatures with yeasts that work on the bottom of the fermenting vat, lagers constitute the other main branch of the beer family.

 

They range from light, bright pilsners to robust doppelbocks, but what unites all lagers is lagering, or an extended chilling period before bottling. During this month or two of low-temperature storage, lagers become smoother and more mellow.

 

Although the word lager is often associated with watery, mass-market beers, some of the most acclaimed craft beers are lagers. Made with quality ingredients and care, lagers can be as engaging as any ale. Compared to ales, which owe a lot of their seductive aromas to warm fermentation and ale yeast, lagers are more buttoned-up. Crisp, direct, and uncomplicated, well-made lagers reward drinkers with a pure expression of hops and malt.