There has been an ongoing conflict between American and European breweries for years. Some say that European brews have so much more to offer than American ones. Americans say the opposite about their ales. But is anybody really right or wrong?
There are, of course, differences between the two, but one is not better than the other. It is up to the discretion of the drinker to decide which one they prefer.
The history behind European brewing is much more in-depth than the American story. The first ale was made in Europe. All it was fruit that was fermented in sugar and concentrate. This made a wine-like product that was called mead. Mead basically came about in medieval times where some thought that the drink was poison because it had no restrictions on it.
Americans began brewing at the turn of the century when everything was falling right into place. The economy was doing well as industrialization made it possible for people to work and make money on a monthly basis. As more people began working, they also needed a place to hang out afterwards where they could relax in their downtime. These places became known as bars, and they sold beer. Beer was a mixture of barley and yeast that when combined became ale.
Here is a look at some popular types of European beers:
- Guinness – Yes you probably have tried or at least seen this ale in the states, but it began in Ireland where it is made, and it is much stronger over there. The stout became known as far back as the 1700s.
- Newcastle Brown Ale – Now this English made brew is one of the best and top sellers on the market today. It is definitely not an old beer, but has been around for quite some time.
- Pilsner Urquell – This is one of the most popular ales in the Czech Republic. This beer is dry and has a carbonated taste to it.
Popular American beers:
- Budweiser – The name is as common as apple pie as consumers have been drinking this ale for many decades. It is a popular party ale.
- Pabst Blue Ribbon – It is currently one of the trendiest brews on the market today. It has a mild ale taste and a smooth aftertaste.
- Rolling Rock – Locally brewed and bottled, this ale is very popular in Pennsylvania.
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