What Is a Lager?

Lager is one of the most popular beer styles in the world. It’s often associated with light domestic beers, but this family of beers should really be known for its precision brewing, refreshing flavors, and long brewing tradition.

At The Growler Guys, we’ve found that lagers offer variety, balance, and drinkability for new and seasoned beer lovers. Here’s our guide to understanding this beer style as it continues its comeback in 2026.

The main difference between lagers and ales lies in the yeast and fermentation processes. Lager yeast ferments at cooler temperatures, typically between 45o° and 55o° F. During fermentation, the yeast settles at the bottom of the tank, which is why lagers are called bottom-fermented beers.

This slower, colder fermentation creates fewer fruity flavors and allows the beer’s malt and hop character to shine through more clearly. After fermentation, lagers are typically conditioned for several weeks at cold temperatures. This extra time and precision are part of what gives lagers their smooth, polished character.

What Does a Lager Taste Like?

One reason this beer style is so popular is its balance and drinkability. Flavor profiles may vary by style, but most share a few common traits:

• Crisp, clean finish
• Smooth mouthfeel
• Balanced malt and hop flavors
• Refreshing drinkability
• Less fruity yeast character than ales

Some lagers are light, bright, and highly carbonated, while others lean more into toasted bread, caramel, or chocolate malt flavors. We recommend trying a few different styles to get a full appreciation for how diverse these brews can be.

Popular Types of Lager Beer

Think of lager and no doubt a pale golden beer comes to mind. While that’s not wrong, this beer family actually includes a wide range of styles with unique flavor profiles.

Pilsner

Pilsners are one of the most recognizable lager styles. They’re typically light-bodied, crisp, and slightly bitter with floral or spicy hop aromas. Czech and German pilsners are classic examples, but many American craft breweries have added their own unique spin.

Helles Lager

This style is malt-forward and smooth with a subtle sweetness. These beers are easy-drinking without sacrificing flavor, which makes them a go-to for casual and devoted craft beer fans alike.

Dunkel Lager

These are darker beers with notes of toasted bread, caramel, nuts, and light chocolate. Despite their darker appearance, they’re still smooth and approachable.

Bock

Bocks are stronger lagers with rich malt flavors and a fuller body. Seasonal varieties like Dopplebock and Maibock show just how complex this beer style can be.

Vienna Lager

These brews feature a beautiful amber color and balanced malt flavor. Expect notes of toasted bread and light caramel paired with a clean finish.

What Is the Difference Between Lager and Ale?

One of the most common questions we’re asked is the difference between lager and ale. The answer comes down to fermentation style.

Ales use top-fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures, usually between 60o° and 75o° F. This process creates more fruity and spicy flavor notes. IPAs, stouts, porters, and wheat beers are all examples of ales.

Lagers, on the other hand, ferment colder and slower. This results in a cleaner and smoother flavor profile that emphasizes crispness and balance.

One style isn’t better than the other – it just depends on what kind of beer experience you’re looking for. Some days call for a bold IPA, while others are perfect for a refreshing pilsner.

Why Craft Beer Fans Love Lagers

Craft beer is often associated with heavily hopped beers or barrel-aged stouts, but lagers have become increasingly popular in the last few years. We’ve found many of our customers rediscovering these brews because they appreciate the style’s refreshing nature and subtle complexity.

Brewers, meanwhile, appreciate the technical skill needed to produce a truly exceptional lager. Because these beers are so clean and balanced, there’s little room to hide flaws in the brewing process. Every ingredient and every brewing step matters.

Best Food Pairings for Lager Beer

These brews are incredibly food-friendly thanks to their crisp finish and balanced flavor profiles. Depending on the style, they pair well with a variety of dishes.

Pilsners pair well with seafood, salads, tacos, and spicy foods.
Helles lagers complement grilled chicken and soft pretzels.
Dunkels pair perfectly with roasted meats and barbecue.
Vienna lagers work well with burgers and pizza.
Bocks complement rich stews and smoked meats.

At The Growler Guys, our certified Beer Stewards are here to help you discover pairings that enhance both your food and beer experience.

Why Freshness Matters

Because lagers are known for their clean flavors, freshness plays a huge role in the drinking experience. Poor storage conditions or old beer can quickly dull the crisp character that makes this style so enjoyable.

At The Growler Guys, we take freshness seriously. Our state-of-the-art tap systems help deliver fresh, foam-free craft beer so you can enjoy it exactly how the brewer intended. Whether you’re filling a growler or sampling a new release in our tap house, you can taste that quality and freshness are our top priorities.

Discover Your Favorite Brew at The Growler Guys

Whether you prefer light and crisp pilsners or rich and malty dunkels, you’re sure to find a lager you love at your local Growler Guys. Our certified Beer Stewards are always ready to guide you through our extensive rotating tap list so you can discover new styles, broaden your palate, and enjoy fresh craft beer. Stop in for a pint, curated flight, or growler fill today.