Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Test

Which term describes a beer that has fermented at elevated temperatures, often resulting in fruity flavors?

1. Lager

2. Pilz

3. Belgian ale

4. Stout

The correct answer is: Belgian ale

The term that describes a beer fermented at elevated temperatures, often resulting in fruity flavors, is Belgian ale. This style of beer is known for its unique fermentation characteristics that arise from using specific yeast strains, which thrive in warmer conditions. These yeast strains tend to produce esters and phenols during fermentation, leading to the development of various fruity and spicy flavors that are hallmarks of Belgian ales. In contrast, lagers, including Pils, undergo fermentation at lower temperatures, typically leading to a cleaner and crisper profile with fewer fruity esters. Stouts, while they can have complex flavors, are not specifically defined by elevated fermentation temperatures or fruity notes but rather by their dark malts and roasted characteristics. Thus, Belgian ales stand out in this context for their warm fermentation process and the resulting flavor profile.