Beer, a very popular alcoholic beverage in Quebec and acround the world, stimulates enthusiasm… and arouses many questions! Are you curious? Here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Do you have questions for us?
1. What are the kinds of beer brewed in Quebec and what are the different kinds available in Canada?
Consumers can choose among a multitude of different varieties, such as ales, cream ales, lagers, pilsners, porters and stouts.
Generally speaking, all beers belong to one of the two major categories: lagers and ales. What distinguishes them? The yeast used and the temperature during fermentation. Ales are created by using top fermenting yeasts that are brewed at higher temperatures, while using bottom-fermenting yeasts brewed at colder temperatures creates lagers.
To find out more on the world of beers and the many different flavours, consult the Field Guide prepared by the Brewers Association of Canada.
2. What is the secret behind Quebec beers?
Consider the starting point of our excellent beers: ingredients of the best quality, such as malt quality barley, pure water from Quebec’s springs, special yeasts, different varieties of hops and the sure instinct of some of the world’s greatest Master Brewers, and you will unlock part of the secret!
For a general idea of the brewing process, from prairie to bottle.
3. Is it possible to visit a brewery?
For safety reasons, and because of strict government standards concerning the manufacturing and transformation of food, it is not possible to visit a brewery’s facilities.
4. How to serve beer to enhance its flavour?
The ideal temperature at which to serve beer varies slightly according to its type. A temperature of between 7 and 10°C is recommended for pale Lagers and Pilsners. Medium and dark Lagers are at their best when served at 10-13°C, while dark Ales and Stouts are best served at 13-16°C. Did you know that the technique used to pour beer will influence its taste? Here are some suggestions on the art of pouring beer.
You would like to know more? Read the Philippe Wouters column!
