Lagers (15 Total)
Lagers are a type of beer characterized by their fermentation process, which is conducted at low temperatures. The term "lager" comes from the German word "lagern," which means "to store" or "to age." This method of brewing typically involves fermenting the beer at cooler temperatures ranging from 7 to 13°C while using a bottom-fermenting yeast strain called Saccharomyces Pastorianus.
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Lagers are known for their clean, crisp taste and smooth finish. They often have a lighter color compared to ales and tend to be less fruity or aromatic, although as you will see, there's a wide range of flavors within the lager category. Lagers are the most consumed type of beer worldwide.
Ales (13)
An ale is a type of beer that is brewed using a warm fermentation method and a top-fermenting yeast strain named Saccharomyces Cerevisiae. This combination typically results in more fruity and complex flavors with a more assertive taste compared to Lagers. Ales also offer a wider range of styles and often contain more hop profile than lagers.
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Ales typically ferment faster than lagers, which is why most breweries only have a couple lagers on tap while offering a wider selection of ales.
Wheat Beers (3)
Wheat beer, which is responsible for the German Purity Law of 1516, is a type of beer brewed with a significant proportion of wheat in addition to malted barley. While most beers are primarily made from barley, wheat beers have a substantial portion of wheat in their grain bill, typically around 30% to 70% of the total malt content.
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Wheat adds certain characteristics to beer, including a lighter body, a creamy texture, and a slightly tart or citrusy flavor. Wheat beers are often known for their refreshing qualities and can be enjoyed in various styles, each with its own unique profile.
Belgian Beers (4)
These beers encompass a diverse range of beer styles originating from Belgium, a country renowned for its rich brewing tradition and unique yeast strains which differ from standard Lager and Ale yeasts. Belgian beers are characterized by their complex flavors, high carbonation, and often higher alcohol content compared to many other beer styles.
Rare & Historical Beers (5)
These Rare and Historical beers encompass a wide range of brews that are uncommon due to unique ingredients or forgotten brewing methods and often are only made in small quantities. This may include extinct or near extinct styles along with historical recreations. Some of these beers were the first of their kind and form the foundations for modern beer styles while others are brewed by only a small number of Calgary breweries.
Special Ingredient/ Brewing Technique Beers (6)
Special ingredients and alternate brewing methods like barrel aging allow brewers to experiment, innovate, and cater to changing consumer tastes. When you support a brewery, you are really supporting the head brewer (and their team) and in Calgary there is no shortage of creativity. Whether its a seasonal release that requires a unique ingredient, a beer that is made using only local elements or a distinctive way of brewing, brewmasters are passionate about their creations, and in this section, you will find beers that step outside of the norm and allow these brewers to showcase additional skills and flavours.
Bonus Round Beers (4)
No Quest is complete without a few surprises and obstacles along the way. These beers will be announced throughout the summer on social media by our sponsors, partners and a special guest.