Altbier

Altbier, meaning old beer, is a German beer style which originated in Düsseldorf. The style falls somewhere between a lager and an ale—the beers are fermented warm like ales but are then aged cool like lagers. The name altbier, which originated in the 1880s, refers to the traditional brewing process of using top-fermenting yeasts.

The name arose to distinguish traditional brews from the new lagers that were mainly produced in Bavaria. Before that, it was simply known as bier. These full-bodied beers are typically malty, clean and crisp, while their color may range from copper to amber.

They often have nutty and toasty aromas, with subtle fruity and peppery notes. Remaining complex without being too heavy, these beers can match roasted chicken or pork, different sausages, smoked salmon or grilled tuna as well as full-flavored and aged cheeses.

Some varieties may even be a good match to apple, pear, or walnut-based desserts. Traditionally, altbier is served in a tall, straight glass.