Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Test

What is the purpose of "lagering" in beer production?

1. To ferment at high temperatures

2. To add additional hops

3. To cold condition lager beer to develop clean flavors and carbonation

4. To introduce wild yeast into the fermentation

The correct answer is: To cold condition lager beer to develop clean flavors and carbonation

Lagering is a crucial step in the production of lager beer, and its primary purpose is to cold condition the beer. This process occurs after the primary fermentation and involves storing the beer at low temperatures for an extended period, typically ranging from several weeks to several months. The cold conditioning allows for several important developments in the beer. Firstly, it helps to enhance the clarity of the beer by allowing particulates, yeast, and other sediment to settle out, resulting in a cleaner appearance. Secondly, lagering facilitates the development of the beer's flavor profile, promoting clean and crisp flavors typical of lagers. The cold temperatures slow down the activity of yeast and other microbes, which can help minimize the production of off-flavors, leading to a smoother and more refined taste. Lastly, lagering aids in natural carbonation, as the residual yeast in the beer can continue to work slowly at these low temperatures, producing carbon dioxide that contributes to the beer’s effervescence. This process is vital for achieving the characteristic mouthfeel and drinkability of lager-style beers. This understanding of lagering helps to distinguish it from other processes, such as fermentation at high temperatures, adding hops, or introducing wild yeast, which serve different purposes and impact the beer in unique ways