When it comes to beer, there are few things more enjoyable than settling in with a cold pint and good company. But for all the pleasure that beer can bring, there is also much to learn about this beloved beverage. In this post, we’ll explore some fascinating beer trivia, starting with: what are the top 5 best-selling beers in the world?
1. Snow Beer
Despite being relatively unknown outside of China, Snow Beer is the undisputed top-selling beer in the world. Sold exclusively in China, this beer is widely consumed by the country’s rapidly growing middle class. In fact, Snow Beer accounts for a staggering 5% of all beer consumed globally.
2. Tsingtao
Another Chinese beer, Tsingtao is a pale lager that was first produced in 1903 by a German brewer. This beer has become an international sensation, with sales worldwide accounting for roughly 2.8% of the global beer market.
3. Budweiser
Of all the American beers on the market, Budweiser is undoubtedly the most recognizable. This light lager is brewed using rice as an adjunct, giving it a crisp and refreshing taste that has made it a favorite among beer drinkers since 1876. Worldwide sales account for around 2.3% of the beer market.
4. Bud Light
Budweiser’s little brother, Bud Light, is another immensely popular beer. Introduced in 1982, this light lager is designed to be a lower calorie alternative to regular Budweiser. This beer has been a hit in the U.S. and beyond, with around 1.8% of the global beer market dedicated to Bud Light.
5. Skol
Finally, Skol rounds out the top 5 best-selling beers in the world. This beer is brewed by the world-renowned beer company Carlsberg, and sales are driven by its popularity in Brazil, where it is the number one beer. Overall, Skol accounts for around 1.6% of global beer sales.
Why are some beers lighter in color than others?
If you’ve ever poured yourself a nice cold pint of beer, you’ve probably noticed that some beers are lighter or darker in color than others. But why is this? The answer has to do with the way the beer is brewed.
The color of beer comes from the malted barley that is used in the brewing process. During the malting process, the barley is heated, which causes chemical reactions that produce sugars. The longer the barley is heated, the darker the resulting beer will be.
So, a light-colored beer like a pilsner or lager will typically use lightly roasted barley, while a darker beer like a stout or porter will use more heavily roasted barley. However, the color of beer can also be affected by the other ingredients used in the brewing process, such as specialty malts, hops, and other additives.
What is the oldest brewery in the world?
Beer has been brewed for thousands of years, but only a handful of breweries have managed to survive for centuries. The oldest brewery still in operation today is the Weihenstephan Brewery, located in the town of Freising, Germany.
This brewery was founded in 1040 by Benedictine monks, making it over 980 years old. Despite its age, Weihenstephan has managed to remain relevant by producing a wide variety of classic Bavarian beers and experimenting with new styles.
What is the strongest beer in the world?
For many beer lovers, the strength of a beer is an important factor. But what is the strongest beer in the world? The answer, as of 2021, is Snake Venom, produced by Brewmeister Brewery in Scotland.
Snake Venom clocks in at an astounding 67.5% ABV (alcohol by volume), making it significantly stronger than most spirits. This beer is brewed using champagne yeast and both ale and champagne malt, and is known for its sweet, fruity flavor and smooth finish.
What is the oldest beer style?
Beer has evolved a lot over the years, with new styles and variations constantly emerging. But what is the oldest beer style? The answer is likely a type of beer called Sahti, which has been brewed in Finland since at least the 9th century.
Sahti is made using a combination of barley, rye, and juniper berries, and is often served unfiltered with a distinctively yeasty flavor. This beer is typically brewed in wooden barrels and fermented using naturally occurring yeasts, giving it a unique character and flavor profile.
What is a radler beer?
If you’re a fan of beer, you may have heard of a drink called a radler. But what is a radler beer, exactly? Put simply, a radler is a mixture of beer and fruit juice or soda.
The origins of the radler can be traced back to Germany in the 1920s, when bike riders would mix beer and lemonade to create a refreshing and hydrating drink. Today, radlers are widely enjoyed across Europe and North America, and are available in a range of flavors and styles.
What is a sour beer?
Finally, let’s talk about sour beers. While most beers are designed to be smooth and refreshing, sour beers are known for their tart and acidic taste.
Sour beers are created through a process called “souring”, which involves culturing the beer with bacteria like lactobacillus or pediococcus. This process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, and can result in a wide variety of sour flavors.
While sour beers have been popular in Europe for centuries, they have only recently gained popularity in North America. Today, craft breweries are experimenting with souring techniques to create unique and flavorful beers that are unlike anything else on the market.
In conclusion, beer may seem like a simple beverage, but there is a surprising amount of complexity and history behind this beloved drink. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a dedicated beer enthusiast, taking the time to learn about beer can help deepen your appreciation for the flavors and experiences it has to offer. So next time you settle in with a pint, take a moment to consider the rich history and variety of this timeless drink.
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