American-Style Lager Beer – the iconic crisp and golden brew – evolved from Czech and German Pilsener styles produced in the United States prior to Prohibition. American brewers, many of whom had their own European roots, produced Pilsener types of pale lager, using local ingredients in their brews. And a key ingredient of that production goes back even further: The American practice of using corn as a source of fermentable sugars in beer dates back to the Pilgrims. Modern American brewers continue to use corn, as well as rice, in beer production, which contributes to a clean taste and lightens the color and body of these lager beers.
American-style Lager remains a staple. The popularity of this classic beer has inspired brewers throughout North and South America, the Caribbean and Asia to produce their own versions of American Lager.
Characteristics: Crisp, clean, balanced, light-bodied
Top-selling American-style Lagers: Budweiser, Miller High Life, Miller Genuine Draft, Coors, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Rolling Rock, Labatt Blue, Molson Canadian, Red Stripe, Presidente Pilsener, Corona Extra, Modelo Especial, Tecate, Dos Equis Lager, Pacífico, Foster’s Lager, San Miguel, Tiger Beer, Tsingtao, Tusker Premium Lager
Serving temperature: Cold, 39-45°
Cheese pairing ideas: Brick, Cheddar, Jalapeño Cheddar
Food pairing ideas: Pizza, barbecue, burgers, shellfish, fried foods and spicy snacks and entrees
