Learn The Facts About German Beer

By Chris Carr


Consumption of beer is a popular pastime in Germany, enjoyed by thousand of resident and visitors alike. Germany has over 1,000 breweries situated throughout the country, which allows them to boast that they have more breweries than any other country in the world.

Over 500 years ago water supplies were often polluted so people drank beer in vast quantities to keep the thirst at bay. By persisting with the purity law, the public were protected from poor stranded and potentially lethal beverages. Because of the strict regulations German beers, have become renowned for their quality and distinct taste, with no lingering aftertaste on the palate.

Some styles of German beer include Koelsch, Waizen and Altiber. The German beer Altbier ranges in colour from medium to dark brown. This beer is conditioned longer than other beers which allow it to mellow out the fruitiness and produces a smooth and delicate beer. It has a great balance between malt and hops and is very popular throughout the regions of Germany. Rauchbier is known to have a smoky colour and flavour; it too is a popular beer in Germany. Each beer has its own unique quality of flavour and clarity.

Lager is a popular beer in Germany and around the world. Pilsener, one of the most favoured lagers is a dark ale presenting with more hops and less malt in its tasting. It is very popular worldwide especially in North America, where is served in bars and restaurants.

Around 4,000 brands of beer are produced throughout Germany by several different companies, such as some of the better known ones, Beck, St Pauli, Warsteiner and Krombach. All situated in North Germany. In the southern region of Germany, there are many more breweries, however they are locally owned and operated. The Benedictine Abbey, also situated in Southern Germany was established in 1040 and beer was brewed there by the Benedictines monks, making it one of the oldest breweries in the world. It is still brewing beer to this day.

Germany is famous for its Oktoberfest, which is held every year in Munich. It starts in late September and carries on for two weeks, ending in early October. During Oktoberfest, lovers of beer travel from all over the world to Germany to celebrate German beers. There is dancing and singing as well as copious amounts of beer consumed during this time.Each and every year millions attend the event over the two week period, making it into the biggest celebrations in the world. Due to the success of Oktoberfest it is noted that many other countries now have their own version of Oktoberfest around that same period. However it is a fact that the Munich Oktoberfest is by far the best in the world.

Those attending learn about the different German beer while they are sampling the brew. Dancing and singing are also part of the beer drinking at Oktoberfest

Due to Munich successful Oktoberfest other cities around the world have adopted the concept and produced their own versions of Oktoberfest, with some success. However it is noted that Germany is the number one when it comes to celebration good quality German beer.




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