Top 10 Irish Beers: Ales, Lagers and More

Erin Go Brew

We have some bad news about St. Patrick's Day. There's no connection between beer and St. Patrick. In fact, the man wasn't even Irish, nor was his name Patrick. But you probably don't want to hear more of the truth, so let's move on and learn a little about Irish beer instead. This brief lesson focuses on beers brewed in Ireland, not Irish-style beers brewed elsewhere.

First, learn a little bit about what you are drinking. You'll appreciate it more. Better yet, try to find as many of these beers as possible, line them up in shot glasses and have a tasting. If you're unfamiliar with Irish beers or just not big on them, still give them a try. They run the range from strong, rich and full-bodied for sipping, to light and crisp—perfect for thirst-quenching and as a companion for spicy foods.

Beer Styles

There are basically two types of beer: ales and lagers. Ales are top-fermented beers. Top-fermenting yeast thrives in warmer temperatures and withstands higher alcohol concentrations. The resulting beers are generally crisp, sweet, flavorsome, somewhat fruity and lack carbonation. Stout beers are part of the ale family. They are dense and dark, and you might notice a hint of chocolate on your palate. Stouts are brewed from a base of roasted malt.

Lagers are bottom-fermented beers. They are stored at low temperatures for longer periods of time (weeks to months—the word lager comes from the German word lagern, "to store") and become mellow, clear and carbonated. Lagers are typically light-colored with a mild hop flavor and strong carbonation.

Cream Ale is a hybrid of ale and lager. Basically it's ale-fermented at a lower temperature and then conditioned like a lager (low temperature). Cream ale colors range from amber to red. They are smooth and well-rounded with a hint of hops.

by Kevin Schoeler

BEAMISH STOUT ___________________________ Dense, malty, dark and chocolaty. It's a nice full-bodied slow drink.

GUINNESS EXTRA STOUT ___________________________ Classic. Up front is a strong coffee-like taste. Slightly bitter at the end. It's nice and smooth—not for gulping.

O'HARA'S CELTIC STOUT (FROM CARLOW) ___________________________ A solid brew that starts with mocha and ends on a dry note. No sign of bitterness.

KILKENNY IRISH (CREAM ALE)___________________________ This amber brew has the rich aroma and flavor of toasted malt. It's all at once sweet and creamy, offset by some bitterness.

SMITHWICK'S IRISH ALE ___________________________ A smooth red ale characterized by caramel maltiness and a hint of hops.