Blonde beer is actually classified as an ale, not a lager. Ales and lagers are two different types of beer, distinguished by the type of yeast used during the fermentation process. Ales are brewed with top-fermenting yeast, while lagers are brewed with bottom-fermenting yeast.
Blonde ale, as the name suggests, is a pale and light-bodied beer that falls under the ale category. It is similar to a lager in terms of its lightness and drinkability, making it a popular choice for those who prefer lighter beer styles.
Blonde ales typically have a mild sweetness to them, often with notes of maltiness and a subtle biscuity flavor. The use of pale malts gives them their light color, which ranges from a pale golden hue to a deeper amber shade. This beer style is known for its crisp and refreshing character, making it a great option for those seeking a lighter and less bitter beer.
When it comes to the brewing process, ales are typically fermented at warmer temperatures compared to lagers. This allows the yeast to work more quickly, resulting in a quicker fermentation process. Ales are also often brewed with a wider variety of ingredients, such as different types of malts, hops, and even spices or fruits, which can contribute to the diverse range of flavors found in this beer style.
On the other hand, lagers are fermented at lower temperatures, which gives them a cleaner and smoother taste. They are known for their crispness and are often characterized by their light color and mild hop bitterness. Lagers tend to have a longer fermentation and aging process, resulting in a more refined and balanced final product.
Blonde beer is classified as an ale, not a lager. It shares similarities with lagers in terms of its light body and drinkability, but it is brewed with top-fermenting yeast and typically has a mild sweetness and biscuity flavor.