Blonde or dark? IPA or Lager? The ultimate guide to craft beer styles
The variety of craft beers today is a whole universe to explore. Knowing the main styles helps you find the beer that best suits your palate. At MASCRAFT, we present the most iconic styles, how to identify them and which craft versions you should try to experience authentic flavours full of character.
1. Lager - The queen of simplicity
Lagers are bottom-fermented beers, known for their clarity, freshness and balance. They dominate the global industrial market (think Mahou, Estrella Galicia or Cruzcampo), with a light profile, cereal notes, dry finish and soft bitterness.
Craft version: Craft lagers stand out for their purity. Careful fermentation, natural ingredients and no additives create richer texture and deeper flavour. If you want a smooth beer with personality, try a craft Pilsner or a Helles: classic freshness with a touch of superior quality.
Recommendation: Look for a Spanish craft lager to appreciate the difference from industrial versions.
2. Pale Ale - The bridge into the craft world
Pale Ales are top-fermented beers, ranging from golden to amber in colour, with fruity, floral or caramel-like aromas. They are more complex than lagers, but just as easy to enjoy.
This style gave rise to IPA (India Pale Ale), the flagship of the craft movement. If you are new to craft beer, a Pale Ale or a Session IPA is the ideal starting point: you will discover that hops bring vibrant aromas, not just bitterness.
Recommendation: Try a Hazy Pale Ale for a juicy and accessible profile.
3. IPA - The hop revolution
India Pale Ale is the style that changed beer history. Its hop-forward character offers intense aromas of tropical fruit, citrus, resin or herbs. IPAs are versatile: from powerful and bitter to soft and fruity.
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American IPA: Dry, with citrus notes and a touch of pine. Ideal for lovers of intense flavours.
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Hazy IPA: Hazy, juicy, with low bitterness and bursts of mango, pineapple or peach.
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Session IPA: Light, refreshing and perfect for getting started in the style.
Recommendation: Explore a West Coast IPA for intensity or a New England IPA for fruity softness.
4. Dark beers - Depth and warmth
Stout and Porter are beers made with roasted malts, with aromas of coffee, chocolate, cocoa or baked bread. Although their dark colour can seem intimidating, many are surprisingly light, with medium body and balanced finish. They are ideal for cold weather or pairing with desserts.
Craft version: Look for an Oatmeal Stout for silky texture or a Milk Stout with a natural sweet touch.
Recommendation: Try a craft Stout with coffee notes for a rich experience without heaviness.
5. Sour beers - Freshness and creativity
Sours are the territory of experimentation. Their refreshing acidity (similar to yoghurt or fermented fruit) comes from lactobacillus or wild fermentations. They can include fruit, spices or herbs, creating unique and vibrant flavours.
Craft version: Fruit Sours combine acidity with notes of red fruit, passion fruit or citrus, perfect for summer.
Recommendation: Start with a Berliner Weisse with raspberry for a fresh and fruity balance.
6. Special beers - Art without limits
The craft universe has no borders. Here you will find smoked beers, barrel-aged beers, beers with coffee, cocoa, spices or even flowers. These limited editions are designed to surprise and to be enjoyed slowly.
Craft version: Try a Barrel-Aged Stout aged in bourbon barrels for notes of vanilla and wood, or a spicy Saison for a rustic touch.
Recommendation: Explore our limited editions to discover the most innovative side of the European craft scene.
How to choose your ideal beer
There are no fixed rules, but this guide will help you get started:
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Craft Lager: Perfect for those seeking freshness with more flavour.
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Pale Ale or Session IPA: Ideal for exploring fruity aromas without feeling overwhelmed.
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Hazy IPA: Balance between intensity and softness, with a tropical touch.
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Stout or Sour: For adventurous drinkers who want deep or refreshing flavours.
Tip: Forget labels like "normal" or "weird". A good craft beer is made with passion and respect for ingredients.
Conclusion
Understanding beer styles opens the door to a world of authentic flavours. Craft beer is not just a drink: it is an experience that recovers the essence of traditional brewing. At MASCRAFT, we select independent producers who prioritise quality over quantity. Discover their creations and redefine the way you enjoy beer.
CTA: Explore our craft beer collection at MASCRAFT and find the style that makes you vibrate.
