DrinksBeer Glossary
The following is only a partial, indicative list of terms related to beers and brewing. As brewing is a complex process, there a number of other terms you will come to know as you enter deep into this wonderful world.
Alcohol content
Alcohol content is expressed as a percentage of volume or weight. It is often referred to as ABV (Alcohol by Volume).
Ale
Ales are fermented warm and made with top fermenting yeast because these ales are generally stronger and more assertive in taste than lagers.
Bitter
There are bitters for all seasons. Ideally, a bitter should have a strong hop character and bitterness. There are also different grades of bitters. starting with bitter then special bitter and extra special bitter. with the later having a higher alcohol content and more complex flavour.
Bottom-fermenting yeast
One of the two types of yeast used in brewing. Bottom-fermenting yeast works well at low temperatures and ferments more sugars. leaving a crisp, clean taste and then settles to the bottom of the tank. Also called ò€˜lager yeastò€™.
Hops
Herb added to boiling water or fermenting beer to impart a bitter aroma and flavour.
Lager
Beers produced with bottom-fermenting yeast strains at colder fermentation temperatures than ales.
Top-fermenting yeast
One of the two types of yeasts used in brewing. Top-fermenting yeast works better at warmer temperatures and is able to tolerate higher alcohol concentrations than bottom-fermenting yeast. It is unable to ferment some sugars and results in a fruitier, sweeter beer.
These are some of the most important beer-related terms and they remain the same in the case of all beers, whether they are full-strength ones or light or even non-alcoholic brews.
One of the most popular ultra light beers in Europe is Schlossgold, originating in Austria, which tastes so beautifully fresh and has the quality of a full strength beer. Whilst the beer does contain 0.4 percent of alcohol, it is not liquor and is considered a non-alcoholic drink by most of the authorities. Therefore, Schlossgold non-alcoholic beer is a potential product for all retailers, small or large, without a liquor licence. You can also drink and drive with Schlossgold. It is currently available in Woolworthò€™s supermarkets in NSW, QLD and VIC and in clubs.
Konrad Beverages is a Sydney-based company that represents various international drinks and brands in Australia. Apart from representing Schlossgold low alcohol beer, they also sell a power drink called ò€˜Powerkingò€™ from Holland, which is available in three flavours (Classic, Cranberry and Sugar Free) and a natural mineral water from Slovakia. The range contains a first in Australia; the natural mountain mineral waters are mixed with herbs and flowers. There are seven different flavours: Dandelion, Sage, Wild Thyme, Lemon Balm, Sparkling, Low and Still Mineral Waters. To know more about both Konrad Beverages and Schlossgold, please log on to their website at www.schlossgold.com.au.