American lager

American lager is a beer style that was initially modeled on the European pale lager. Most examples of the style are clear and pale brews with a neutral flavor, subtle malt aromas, and low to moderately low hop bitterness. Initially, ales were the preferred choice in the American colonies, and lager style was only introduced with the influx of German immigrants—who were already familiar with brewing lager styles.

They tried to make similar lagers in the United States but had to look for other grains to replace barley, which was somewhat different than European, and it was also slightly harder to cultivate. A small addition of grains such as wheat or rye influenced the birth of lighter American lagers.

Following Prohibition and WWII, the tendency shifted to production of even more neutral beers—which led to the creation of what is nowadays known as American lager. These beers are generally crisp, refreshing, light-bodied, highly-carbonated, and usually weaker than international lagers.

American lager is often described as a thirst-quenching beer, and it should be paired only with light dishes such as pizza, sausages, some seafood dishes, and salty snacks like peanuts and popcorn. They can also work with less-flavorful cheese varieties.