Popular Craft Beer Styles and Their History - A Journey Through the World of Romanian Craft Beer

In a world where tastes are becoming increasingly refined, Craft beer has transformed from a niche product into a global phenomenon. From intensely flavored IPAs to smooth, complex stouts, each style of craft beer tells a story of passion, tradition, and innovation.

What sets these beers apart from industrially produced ones? And how have popular styles evolved over time? Let's discover together the fascinating history and diversity that make craft beer an unmissable experience for any lover of authentic taste.

The History of Beer - From the Origins to the Revival of Craft Beer

Beer is one of the oldest fermented beverages in the world, with origins dating back to the Neolithic period. Evidence of fermented grain-based beverages has been discovered in ancient China and Mesopotamia, where the Sumerians produced "sikaru", an early form of beer made from fermented barley bread.

In ancient Egypt, the brewing process was perfected, and in medieval Europe, monasteries took the art of brewing to a new level, contributing to the development of classic styles. A key moment was the adoption of the "Beer Purity Law" in Germany (1516), which standardized the ingredients: water, malt and hops.

The Industrial Revolution radically changed production, with the advent of lager beer in the Czech Republic (1842) and the expansion of commercial breweries in the 19th–20th centuries.

In recent decades, craft beer has undergone a real revolution. Small producers are bringing original recipes and diverse styles to the market, restoring beer to its authentic character and creativity of yesteryear.

Who invented craft beer?

Craft beer does not have a single inventor, but rather is the result of a passionate movement that began in the 60s and 70s. At that time, in the USA, small brewers decided to oppose the industrial mass production, which offered simple, uniform and characterless beers. Thus, they began to produce beer with traditional methods, natural ingredients and original recipes, restoring the flavor and diversity of beer.

One of the pioneers of this revolution was Jack McAuliffe, who founded the New Albion Brewing Company, the first modern microbrewery in America, in 1976. Along with him, Ken Grossman, founder of the Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, contributed decisively to the popularization of craft beer, and Fritz Maytag, who took over an old Anchor brewery in San Francisco.

More than just an "invention", craft beer is a philosophy of quality and creativity, a return to the essence of beer: the passion for authentic flavors and unique experiences. This movement has spread throughout the world and inspired, including here, the creation of beers with personality and special stories, such as those produced by Zăganu.

Why is craft beer so special and appreciated?

Craft beer is distinguished by its diversity, personality, and attention to detail. Each batch is conceived as a unique product, not a mass-produced one. Craft brewers are constantly experimenting with rare hops, specialty malts, spices, fruits, or alternative fermentation methods.

This creative freedom leads to beers with surprising aromatic profiles, offering an authentic and different experience every time. In addition, consumers appreciate the transparency of the production process, the proximity to small producers and the story behind each beer – elements that add value to the taste.

Popular craft beer styles and their characteristics

One of the things that makes craft beer so exciting is the impressive variety of styles available. Each type of beer has a distinct identity, influenced by its origin, fermentation technique, ingredients used, and even local culture.

From light and refreshing beers, perfect for summer, to intense variants with complex flavors of coffee, chocolate or exotic fruits, craft beer offers something for every taste. Here are some of the most appreciated styles, along with the features that make them unique:

IPA (India Pale Ale) - The Queen of Craft Beer

IPAs are some of the most popular and recognizable styles in the craft beer world. Prized for their intense hop profile, they offer an explosion of flavors and a pronounced bitterness that lingers pleasantly after each sip.

This style originally emerged in England during the colonial period, when beer was additionally hopped to better withstand long journeys to India – hence the name India Pale Ale . Over time, the recipe evolved, especially in North America, where craft brewers experimented with local hops and bold flavors.

Main features:

• Predominant aromas of citrus (grapefruit, lemon), pine and tropical fruits (mango, papaya).

• More pronounced bitter taste, due to generous doses of hops.

• Medium to high alcohol content: 5–7% ABV (some Imperial/Double Rye IPA variants can reach over 8-10%).

• Color: from light gold to deep amber.

• Slightly dry, sometimes effervescent texture, which highlights bitter notes.

There are also variants like Double Rye IPA (with more alcohol and hops) or New England IPA , which is hazier and has a juicier, less bitter taste. IPA is the perfect choice for those looking for an intense and characterful beer.

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Ales are a broad category of top-fermented beers, where the yeast acts at higher temperatures and gives the drink a richer, fruitier flavor profile. They are among the oldest types of beer, with a history that goes back thousands of years, and the varieties available in the craft sector are extremely diverse.

This style is appreciated for its balance between malt sweetness and hop bitterness, offering a pleasant, accessible and versatile taste experience.

Main features:

• Fruity aromas (apples, bananas, red fruits) and light malt notes (caramel, toast).

• Balanced taste, with a moderate level of bitterness.

• Medium body and velvety texture.

• Color: from golden to dark reddish, depending on the type of malt used.

• Variable alcohol content, usually between 3.5% and 6.5% ABV.

Among the most popular types of ale are Pale Ale , Amber Ale , Brown Ale or Belgian Ale , each with distinct aromatic nuances. It is an ideal choice for those who prefer a round, balanced taste, with slight sweet or fruity accents.

Stout

Stouts are dark beers with a deep and intense flavor profile that clearly differentiates them from other styles. This type of beer has its origins in England and Ireland, where it evolved from the Porter style, originally called Stout Porter to denote a more robust variant.

Prized for their roasted notes and velvety texture, stouts are often associated with cold-season drinks, but there are also lighter versions suitable for all year round.

Main features:

• Rich aromas of roasted coffee, dark chocolate, caramel and sometimes notes of wood or smoke.

• Creamy, sometimes unctuous texture, with a long aftertaste.

• Color: opaque black, with dense, cream-colored foam.

• Variable alcohol content: between 4% and 10% ABV, depending on the style.

• Medium to full body, with a discreet bitterness from the roasted malts.

Popular variations include Dry Stout (like the famous Guinness), Milk Stout (with lactose for a sweeter taste), and Imperial Stout (more alcoholic and complex). It is the ideal choice for those looking for a beer with depth, rich aromatic nuances, and a comforting texture.

Porter

Porters are dark beers, similar to stouts, but with a more balanced character and a slightly lighter texture. Originating in 18th-century London, they were a favorite of the working class due to their rich taste and nutritional content.

Main features:

• Aromas of roasted malt, chocolate and sometimes nuts or caramel.

• Medium to full body, with moderate carbonation.

• Balanced taste between sweet, bitter and roasted.

• Color: dark brown to black.

• Moderate alcohol content: 4–6.5% ABV.

They are ideal for those who appreciate roasted beers but want a milder version than an intense stout, but there is also a Baltic Porter with a higher alcohol content.

Sour

Sour beers are completely different from other styles due to their pronounced acidity. Obtained through spontaneous fermentation or by the addition of special bacteria and yeasts, they offer a vibrant and often surprising taste experience.

Main features:

• Acidic taste and aromas, often fruity or citrusy.

• Variable acidity: from subtle and refreshing to intense and provocative.

• Light to medium body, with often high carbonation.

• Color: extremely variable, from pale gold to pink or dark red.

• Often made with fruit additions (raspberries, cherries, mango, etc.).

They are preferred by those looking for something unusual, with a refreshing sensation and a complex aromatic profile.

Each style of craft beer tells a story. For us, at Zăganu , beer is not just a drink, but a form of expression. We put passion into each batch and strictly follow the recipes that give character to each beer. Whether you are attracted by the intensity of a IPA , the balance of a Pale Ale or the depth of a Stout , with us you will find authentic, unfiltered tastes, created in the heart of our mountains. Explore our collection of craft beers and discover the taste of Zaganu .

How to choose and appreciate craft beer

Choosing and appreciating craft beer can seem challenging at first, given the impressive variety of styles, flavors, and production methods. However, with a few simple guidelines and a dose of curiosity, you can discover a fascinating world in every bottle.

1. Start with what you like

The first step is to think about what type of flavors you generally prefer. If you are a fan of sweeter and fruitier flavors, an Ale or Pale Ale may be suitable choices. If you like intense bitterness and hop flavors, an IPA will pleasantly surprise you. For those who love complex flavors, with notes of chocolate, coffee or caramel, Stouts and Porters are ideal.

2. Pay attention to the details on the label

Craft beers often offer detailed information about style, ingredients, alcohol content, and even serving recommendations. Check these details to get an idea of ​​what to expect in your glass. For example, a higher ABV (alcohol by volume) indicates a stronger beer, and a note about the type of hops used can help you anticipate the flavors.

3. Temperature and glass matter

To fully appreciate the flavors and complexity of craft beer, serve it at the right temperature. Lighter beers, like Pale Ale or Lager, are best served chilled, between 6 and 8 degrees Celsius. Fuller-bodied beers with intense flavors, like Stout or Porter, can be enjoyed at slightly higher temperatures, between 8 and 14 degrees Celsius, to release all the flavors.

The shape of the glass also influences the tasting experience. A wide-rimmed glass will allow the flavors to rise and be better perceived, while a tulip glass can concentrate the aromatic notes.

4. Explore and experiment

Craft beer is all about diversity and innovation, so don't be afraid to try new styles or limited editions. Many craft beers are created in small batches, with surprising ingredients or unusual flavor combinations.

You can even organize tastings with friends or attend craft beer events to learn more and discover new preferences. We recommend trying all Zăganu varieties at our bar on Calea Victoriei no. 91 - 93.

5. Savor with patience and openness

Appreciating craft beer is not just about the taste, it's also about the story behind each bottle. Take time to observe the color, the head, the smell, and gradually discover the flavors that develop on the palate. Be open to new experiences and the diversity that makes craft beer so special.

With these tips, choosing and appreciating craft beer becomes a journey of flavor and discovery. Whether you're a beginner or a connoisseur, each glass offers a unique experience worth savoring.

Enjoying the diversity of Zăganu craft beer

Exploring craft beer styles reveals the richness and creativity of the local scene, and Zăganu is an emblem of this authentic diversity. Each beer is crafted with care, carefully selected ingredients, and respect for the craft beer tradition, offering you a complex and memorable experience.

For lovers of intense hops, the IPA and Adonis American Pale Ale Zăganu collection is a true celebration of flavors.
Zăganu IPA is a classic example of an American-style India Pale Ale, with a beautiful copper color. Unpasteurized and naturally fermented for at least 23 days, followed by a dry-hopping process, this beer stands out for its strong bitter taste typical of IPAs and a long aftertaste, full of tropical and citrus notes, due to the three types of American hops used. Using 3 types of malt and a special top-fermenting yeast, Zăganu IPA surprises with its complexity and freshness.

In the same collection, Zăganu Adonis Pale Ale tells a story of its own. It was created to celebrate the return of the bearded vulture, a protected species. This limited edition beer impresses with its intense taste. It has a moderate bitterness at the beginning and a long, citrusy aftertaste, with notes of mandarin and tropical fruits. This unique combination of European and American hops, along with three types of malt and a superior yeast, offers a refined and balanced experience, ideal for those looking for a craft beer with personality.

For those who love stronger taste challenges, Zăganu Double Rye IPA is an intense choice. With 8% alcohol and made from 4 different malts, including rye malt, this beer is distinguished by its slightly spicy and astringent character, which brings added complexity to the taste experience.

On the dark beers side, the Zăganu Red and Dark Beers collection offers options that delight with depth and texture.
Zăganu Imperial Stout is a dark, strong and full-bodied beer, aged for a minimum of 45 days, made with 6 different types of malt and 2 types of hops. This beer brings intense aromas, which balance the bitterness of the hops with roasted notes, creating a dense and memorable experience.

Also, Zăganu Bruna is an unfiltered beer, fermented for at least 30 days, with a dark copper-to-black color, which impresses with fine notes of chocolate and caramel. Made with 3 types of hops and 3 special malts, this beer brings a pleasant balance between the sweetness of the malt and the subtle bitterness, being the perfect choice for moments of relaxation.

Enjoying a Zăganu craft beer means not only enjoying the taste, but also delving into the story of the passion of the brewers who put their soul into each batch. To deepen this journey, we invite you to discover more details and purchase these beers directly from the official collections:
Discover the Zăganu Pale Ale and IPA collection
Explore the Zăganu Red and Dark Beers collection

Thus, every sip becomes an invitation to discover and appreciate Romanian craft beer, where each style has a story and a taste that deserves to be savored with patience and respect.