Victoria Bitter (VB) is classified as a lager. This iconic Australian beer is well-known for its distinctive taste and widespread popularity.
VB is specifically a lager, a type of beer brewed at cooler temperatures using bottom-fermenting yeast. Lagers are often characterized by their crisp, clean, and refreshing profiles, which has contributed to VB's status as one of Australia's best-selling beers.
Key Characteristics and History
Originally brewed in Melbourne, Victoria, VB has a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. Its consistent quality and unique flavour profile have cemented its place in Australian culture.
Here's a quick overview of some key facts about Victoria Bitter:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Beer Type | Lager |
| Producer | Carlton & United Breweries (a subsidiary of Asahi) |
| Origin | Melbourne, Victoria, Australia |
| First Brewed | 1854 by Thomas Aitken at Victoria Brewery |
| Popularity | One of the best-selling beers in Australia |
Understanding Lagers
Lagers encompass a broad category of beers, and their brewing process typically involves:
- Yeast Type: Bottom-fermenting yeast, which works more slowly and at colder temperatures.
- Fermentation: Occurs at lower temperatures (typically 7–13 °C or 45–55 °F).
- Maturation: Undergoes a process called "lagering" (from the German word lagern, meaning "to store"), which involves cold storage for several weeks or months. This process clarifies the beer and refines its flavors.
For more detailed information on Victoria Bitter, you can visit its Wikipedia page.
