1B. Standard American Lager

Aroma

Little to no malt aroma, although it can be grainy, sweet or corn-like if present. Hop aroma may range from none to a light, spicy or floral hop presence. Low levels of yeast character (green apples, DMS, or fruitiness) are optional but acceptable. No diacetyl.

Appearance

Very pale straw to medium yellow color. White, frothy head seldom persists. Very clear.

Flavor

Crisp and dry flavor with some low levels of grainy or corn-like sweetness. Hop flavor ranges from none to low levels. Hop bitterness at low to medium-low level. Balance may vary from slightly malty to slightly bitter, but is relatively close to even. High levels of carbonation may provide a slight acidity or dry “sting.” No diacetyl. No fruitiness.

Mouthfeel

Light body from use of a high percentage of adjuncts such as rice or corn. Very highly carbonated with slight carbonic bite on the tongue.

Overall Impression

Very refreshing and thirst quenching.

Comments

Strong flavors are a fault. An international style including the standard mass-market lager from most countries.

Ingredients

Two- or six-row barley with high percentage (up to 40%) of rice or corn as adjuncts.

Vital Statistics

IBUs   8 – 15
SRM  2 – 4
OG  1.040 – 1.050
FG  1.004 – 1.010
ABV  4.2 – 5.3%

Commercial Examples

  • Pabst Blue Ribbon
  • Miller High Life
  • Budweiser
  • Baltika #3 Classic
  • Kirin Lager
  • Grain Belt Premium Lager
  • Molson Golden
  • Labatt Blue
  • Coors Original
  • Foster’s Lager