Beer. What is this thing we love? Quite simply, Beer is a beverage made with malted cereal grains (which could include barley, wheat, rye, corn or rice), hops and water that is fermented by adding yeast. Alcohol is created by yeast which consumes oxygen and sugar and produces alcohol, carbon dioxide and heat. Alcohol levels can range from 2% Alcohol by Volume (ABV) to a whopping 15% ABV for Barley Wines. This description does not quite do justice to beer. In fact, beer is a very complex drink that can take on thousands of interpretations. Categorizing beer can sometimes be difficult for most of us. There are two main types of beer: Ales and Lagers
	Ales • Are fermented at warmer temperatures for 3-4 days • Are said to be top fermenting (yeast rises to the top) • Generally have fruitier aromas and more robust flavours • Should be served warmer (anywhere from 7°C to 14°C) • Should be served in open mouthed glasses to allow the aromas to be appreciated more readily • Should be served with more full flavoured foods
	Lagers • Are fermented at cooler temperatures for 7-10 days • Are said to be bottom fermenting (yeast drops to bottom) • Generally are lighter and more thirst quenching • Should be served colder (anywhere from 2°C to 7°C) • Should be served in tall, narrower glasses to concentrate the aromas at the top • Should be served with lighter tasting foods