List of Lager Yeasts

Lager yeast, scientifically known as Saccharomyces pastorianus, is unique in many ways when compared to other yeasts used in beer brewing. This type of yeast is distinguished by its ability to ferment at colder temperatures, usually around 8 to 12 degrees Celsius, which is lower than ale yeasts that ferment at higher temperatures. This difference results in a slower, more extended fermentation process, often taking weeks rather than days. Lager yeast also ferments at the bottom of the fermentation vessel, hence the term "bottom-fermenting," while ale yeast is top-fermenting. Additionally, lager yeast produces fewer fruity and spicy esters and phenols than ale yeast, leading to a cleaner, crisper taste that allows the malt and hops in the beer to take center stage.

Lager yeast is typically used in brewing various types of lager beers, including Pilsners, Bocks, Doppelbocks, Märzens (Oktoberfest beers), and Dortmunders, among others. These styles showcase the lager yeast's ability to create beers with clean, smooth, and well-rounded flavors, which contrast with the often more complex and robust flavors found in ales. Despite its slow and temperature-specific fermentation process, the qualities of lager yeast have made lager the most widely consumed and commercially available type of beer in the world.