Understanding Cold Beer Consumption in Europe: A Guide for Non-Europeans

Introduction:

Contrary to popular belief, the tradition of drinking warm beer is not widespread in Europe. Instead, beer is typically served cold, often reaching cellar temperature, which ranges between 50–60 degrees Fahrenheit (10–16 degrees Celsius). However, the exact serving temperature varies depending on the type of beer, and this guide will help non-Europeans understand these nuances.

The Myths of Warm Beer in Europe

Contrary to urban legends, Europeans do not drink warm beer. Traditionally, beer is kept in kegs in cellars at a temperature range of 50–60 degrees Fahrenheit (10–16 degrees Celsius), which is why the term “cellar temperature” is used. This temperature is ideal for fuller-bodied and flavorful beers.

Cold Beer Serving Standards in Europe

Lighter beers such as pilsners and lagers, known for their crisp and refreshing qualities, are typically served at colder temperatures. In Europe, this is often around 35–40°F (2–4°C). Even in countries with a strong tradition of serving beers close to cellar temperature, such as the UK, the ideal serving temperature is still on the colder side.

Light Beers vs. Full Bodied Beers

While lagers and weissbeers are generally served at colder temperatures, ales are better served at a slightly higher temperature, often referred to in the UK as “room temperature”. This temperature in a British context can still be quite cool, but its definition is based on the ambient temperature of a typical British room, not the inside of a refrigerator.

Room Temperature Ales in Europe

In the UK, ales served at room temperature are considered a bit unusual, and most Europeans prefer lagers served cold. The concept of room temperature ales can seem strange to many non-Europeans, especially when confronted with the cold serving temperatures of lagers.

Temperatures Around the Mediterranean

Around the Mediterranean, lagers are often served at almost freezing temperatures, reflecting the local climate and the desire to have a refreshing drink.

Temperature Guidelines for Different Beer Types

Here is a comprehensive guide to the ideal serving temperatures of different types of beer in Europe:

Mass market light lagers: 35–40°F (2–4°C) Czech and German Pilsners, Munich Helles wheat beers, and Klsch: 40–45°F (4–7°C) IPAs, American pale ales, porters, and most stouts: 45–50°F (7–10°C) Belgian ales, sour ales, Bocks, English bitters, and milds, Scottish ales: 50–55°F (10–13°C) Barleywines, imperial stouts, Belgian strong ales, and Doppelbocks: 55–60°F (13–16°C)

It's important to note that light lagers, including many American beers, are often so poorly made that they need to be served close to freezing to mask their poor quality.

Do Europeans Find Cold Beer Strange?

Among non-Europeans, the concept of refrigerating beer to the point where it is almost frozen is often considered unusual. However, for Europeans, this is a normal way of enjoying a refreshing drink, especially on a hot day.

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to this rule. In some regions where the climate is colder, and rooms are actually at a cooler temperature, room temperature is lower, and refrigerated beer is more commonly consumed. However, this is a rarity.

Conclusion

In summary, Europeans do not consume warm beer. Instead, they serve and enjoy beer at cold temperatures, with the exact temperature varying depending on the type of beer. Understanding these nuances can help non-Europeans appreciate the range of flavors and refreshing qualities that different beer types offer when served at the optimal temperature.