Lager
Lager is a style of beer produced using bottom-fermenting yeast at low temperatures, typically between 4 °C and 12 °C. The cold conditioning (lagering) process produces a clean, crisp taste and clear appearance.
Lager versus ale
The key distinction between lager and ale lies in the yeast and fermentation temperature. Ales use top-fermenting yeast at warmer temperatures, producing more complex, fruity flavours. Lagers ferment slowly at low temperatures and then condition further in cold storage, yielding a smoother, lighter character. Central European countries such as Germany, the Czech Republic, and Hungary have a long tradition of lager brewing, and draught lager is the default beer in most Budapest bars.
Related: beer tour Budapest · flavoured beers in Budapest · fermentation.