What is a Lager?

Lager. You know the word. You’ve probably seen it a hundred times on a bottle or can. But what exactly is it?

Simply put: lager is a bottom-fermented beer. This means that during brewing, the yeast does its work at low temperatures. This yeast is also active at the bottom of the tank – though that’s not where the name lager comes from! Fermenting a lager takes longer than with top-fermented beers like IPAs or tripels. A bottom-fermented beer also generally results in a 'cleaner' beer, meaning with fewer flavors developed during fermentation.

Pilsner

Most people automatically associate lager with pilsner, and that’s understandable. Pilsner is the most famous (and most consumed) beer style worldwide. We also have a Pilsner in our range: refreshing, organic, and also gluten-free!

With a twist

Because lagers are so clean and subtle on their own, brewers can create really cool variations without it immediately becoming an explosion of flavor.

Take, for example, Zonnesteek, our Sunshine Lager that returns every spring. Brewed with American hops that provide a tropical note, and caramelized malt that gives it a warm, golden-orange color. The result? A lager that doesn't shout, but does have character. Or look at our newest: Rondje Pop, specially brewed for the collaboration with music festival Popronde. Technically a lager, but with an extra hop kick. Fresh, light, and ideal for lounging in the grass, by the tent, or simply when the sun is shining.

The name

So where does the name come from if it’s not about the location in the tank (bottom) or the temperature (lower) at which it is fermented? The term lager comes from the German word 'storage/to store'. Because these beers usually need more time and stand in the tank for a long time to… lager. By the way, we do that with all our beers, top and bottom-fermented, Non-Alcoholic and with alcohol.

Conclusion

A pilsner is always a lager. But a lager is not necessarily a pilsner. There is an enormous amount to discover within lagers, from clean and tropical to hoppy. And whether you're in the mood for a classic or a surprising twist: your fridge deserves more than one type of lager.