Think lager is just light and fizzy? Think again. If you ask for a beer anywhere in the world, chances are you'll be handed a lager, something cold, crisp and refreshing. But lager is far more diverse than most people realise. As beer writer Mark Dredge explained in our recent webinar, lager’s history spans over 600 years, evolving from dark, smoky brews to the golden, easy-drinking styles we know today.
The evolution of lager
Lager brewing started in Bavaria, where brewers stored beer in cold cellars or caves. Unlike ales, which were brewed and consumed quickly, these beers matured for weeks or even months in cold conditions, developing a smooth and refined flavour. This process led to the name lager, which comes from the German word for "to store."
Over time, technological advancements such as indirect malting, refrigeration and mass transportation helped lager spread across the world. The combination of industry, technology, science and changing consumer preferences shaped lager into the globally dominant beer style it is today.
Lager styles you may not know
Here are just a few of the fascinating lagers Mark discussed in the webinar.
Rauchbier
One of the oldest lager styles, Rauchbier, or smoked beer, is still brewed using traditional methods in Bamberg, Germany. Schlenkerla, one of the most famous Rauchbier breweries, continues to use wood-fired malting techniques to create an intense smoky flavour.
Doppelbock
A strong, rich beer brewed by monks in Bavaria, Doppelbock was known as "liquid bread" because of its nourishing qualities. While the exact origins of monks drinking it during fasting periods are debated, these dark, malty beers remain a seasonal tradition.
Vienna lager
Developed by Austrian brewer Anton Dreher in the 1840s, this amber-coloured lager was once hugely popular. Although Vienna lager faded into obscurity, it has seen a resurgence thanks to craft breweries.
Pilsner
First brewed in Pilsen, Czech Republic, in 1842, Pilsner is often called the world’s first golden lager. It was revolutionary at the time, setting the standard for the crisp, pale lagers that would later dominate the market.
Helles
Munich’s answer to Pilsner, Helles is slightly maltier and softer in character. Although Munich’s brewers were initially resistant to brewing pale lagers, they eventually embraced the style in the 1890s, and it has since become one of the most popular beer styles in Germany.
Where is lager headed?
Lager continues to evolve. Brewers today are looking both backwards and forwards, reviving classic styles while experimenting with new ones. Many are recreating traditional lagers to make them more widely available, while others are pushing boundaries with dry-hopped lagers and hybrid styles.
One thing is certain. Lager is far more than just a simple, fizzy beer. Its history is rich, its styles are diverse, and its future is full of possibilities.
Take your beer knowledge further
If you’re serious about beer, whether for your career or just for the love of it, understanding different styles is essential. WSET’s beer qualifications are designed to help you develop your tasting skills, build confidence in beer assessment and explore beers from around the world.
Start your WSET beer journey today. Find out more about out beer qualifications.
