Historical Beer

Historical Beer brings together styles that have become rare, survive mainly through recreations, or retain cultural importance within a country or region. Historical does not necessarily mean extinct: some are still produced or are being rediscovered by craft brewers. These styles have documented brewing traditions; newly invented experimental beers and familiar styles with added specialty ingredients are different groups. Historical styles can also serve as the base for beers with fruit, spices, wood, or smoke. For a style that changed substantially over time, such as Porter or Stout, the era matters when describing its character. The styles covered here include Kellerbier, Kentucky Common, Lichtenhainer, London Brown Ale, Piwo Grodziskie, Pre-Prohibition Lager, Pre-Prohibition Porter, Roggenbier, and Sahti.