Beer Brewing Process
Beer brewing involves fermentation. Yeast chemically converts sugars into ethyl alcohol and carbon dioxide gas. Top fermentation produces ales. Bottom fermentation produces lagers.
Brewing Industry Overview
The brewing industry consists of large companies like Anheuser-Busch, MillerCoors, and Pabst Brewing Company, which produce popular brands such as Bud Light, Budweiser, and Coors Light, as well as small craft breweries focused on innovation and flavor.
Craft Beer and Brewers
Craft brewers create unique, flavorful beers in small batches using traditional methods and ingredients. Craft beer is characterized by unique flavor and aroma from specialty grains, hops, and yeast.
Historical Brewing
Historical evidence shows ancient civilizations including Sumerians, Chinese, and Romans brewed beer from grains, rice, and other ingredients, evolving from a household activity to an artisan craft by the 15th century.
Impact of Prohibition
Prohibition banned alcohol sales, leading some breweries like Pabst to temporarily switch to other products before resuming beer production when prohibition ended.