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One of my colleagues always orders a lager top at the pub. When others go to buy a round, I can see their quizzical faces, as many don’t have a clue what it is. So, what is a lager top? If you’ve ever asked yourself that question or stared down someone who asked for one, expecting them to have made a mistake, you’re in luck! This article will break down exactly what this drink is, explore its history, and why it’s so popular.
What is a Lager Top?
A lager top is a simple yet popular drink commonly ordered in British pubs. At its core, it’s a lager topped with a small amount of lemonade (for you American readers, lemonade in the UK refers to a carbonated, lemon-flavoured soda like Sprite). The ratio typically involves just a splash of lemonade, usually about a finger-width amount in the glass, which gives the drink a slightly sweeter and more refreshing taste than a standard lager.
The “top” in the name refers to the small amount of lemonade added after pouring the lager. This slight addition can change the lager’s flavour profile, making it lighter and less bitter, which is why it’s a favourite among those who might find traditional lagers too intense. It’s also an excellent option for those who want to pace themselves while drinking, as the lemonade dilutes the alcohol content slightly.
The History and Origins of the Lager Top
The lager top may seem like a relatively modern invention, but it actually has roots that stretch back to the traditions of British pub culture. The exact origins of the drink are a bit hazy, maybe because the historians were too drunk to write it down. However, it’s believed that the lager top emerged to make it more palatable to a broader audience.
During the post-war era, British drinkers were introduced to lager, a lighter and crisper alternative to the traditional ales, porters, and stouts that dominated the UK beer scene. As lagers began to take over taps across the country, drinkers started experimenting with their pints. One of these experiments was the addition of a splash of lemonade, which quickly caught on, especially among those who preferred a milder, less bitter beverage.
The Cousin to the Shandy
Adding a mixer to beer wasn’t an entirely new concept. For centuries, beer has been combined with various other ingredients to create different drinks—think of the shandy, half beer and half lemonade. The lager top can be seen as a more subtle cousin to the shandy, just softening the edges of the beer a bit.
As lager became more embedded in British drinking culture, so did the lager top. It was trendy among those who wanted to enjoy a beer but preferred something lighter and easier to drink. Over time, it became a staple in pubs across the UK, known for its simplicity and refreshing taste.
Why Is the Lager Top So Popular?
I have friends who will only buy a lager if they give it a top, which is the case for many people. For various reasons, the lager top has secured its place in British pub culture, making it a go-to choice for many drinkers. But what about this simple drink has made it so special? Let’s explore the reasons behind its popularity.
A Refreshing Twist on a Classic
One of the main reasons the lager top is so popular is that it offers a refreshing twist on a classic lager. By adding just a splash of lemonade, the drink is transformed from bitter and hoppy into lighter, crisper, and slightly sweet. This subtle adjustment makes it particularly appealing on warm days when drinkers are looking for something to quench their thirst without overwhelming their taste buds.
Accessibility for All Palates
You might not believe me, but not everyone likes the taste of most lagers. The addition of lemonade takes the edge off, making the lager top an accessible option for those who might not typically enjoy beer. Those new to the beer world may also find the lager top an excellent choice.
Lower Alcohol Content
While the alcohol content of a lager top isn’t drastically lower than that of a standard lager, the small amount of lemonade does dilute the drink slightly. This makes it an excellent option for social settings where you can pace yourself or enjoy a drink over a longer period without getting too battered. The lager top allows you to enjoy the experience of drinking a beer while keeping things light and easy.
Variations and Alternatives to the Lager Top
While the classic lager top is a delightful combination of lager and lemonade, there are plenty of variations and alternatives for those who like to mix things up. Whether you want to try a new twist on the drink or explore entirely different beer-based cocktails, here are some options that can add a little variety to your drinking repertoire.
Lager and Lime
If you enjoy the crispness of a lager top but want to add a bit more zest, a lager and lime might be what you’re looking for. Instead of lemonade, this variation uses a splash of lime cordial or freshly squeezed lime juice.
Shandy
As mentioned, the shandy is a close relative of the lager top and is made by mixing beer with lemonade or another citrus soda. The main difference is the ratio—while a lager top features just a splash of lemonade, a shandy typically involves equal parts beer and lemonade.
Radler
Originating in Germany, the Radler is another popular beer mix similar to the shandy. Traditionally, it’s made by mixing beer (often lager or pilsner) with citrus soda or lemonade. The Radler typically has a 50/50 mix of beer and soda, similar to a shandy but emphasising the citrusy flavours.
Snakebite
The snakebite is ready for those who want to try something with a bit more for university students. This drink combines lager and cider in equal parts, resulting in a sweet, tangy, and slightly stronger beverage than a typical lager top. Some variations of the snakebite include a splash of blackcurrant cordial, which adds a fruity and somewhat tart twist to the drink.
Beer and Ginger Beer
Mixing lager with ginger beer is an excellent alternative for those who enjoy a bit of spice. The ginger beer’s sweetness and spiciness complement the lager’s crispness, resulting in a refreshing drink full of flavour. This variation is prevalent in some Caribbean countries.
Beer Cocktails
If you want to venture even further from the classic lager top, there’s a world of beer cocktails to explore. Drinks like the Michelada (a Mexican beer cocktail with lime juice, hot sauce, and assorted seasonings) or the Beermosa (a mix of beer and orange juice, similar to a mimosa) offer unique and flavorful alternatives that still feature beer as the main ingredient. Why not even try a beer with Coke (not that type!).
Summary
The lager top, a staple in British pubs, is a refreshing twist on lager with a splash of lemonade, making it lighter and less bitter. Its popularity stems from its accessibility, lower alcohol content, and the refreshing taste it offers, especially on warm days. Beyond the classic lager top, variations like lager and lime, shandy, Radler, and snakebite provide options for those seeking different flavours. For more adventurous drinkers, beer cocktails like the Michelada and Beermosa offer unique, flavourful alternatives, all rooted in the tradition of mixing beer with other ingredients to enhance its taste.
FAQs
How do you pour a lager top?
To pour a lager top, start by filling a pint glass with lager, leaving a small gap at the top. Once the lager settles, gently add a splash of lemonade (about a finger-width) on top. The lemonade will mix slightly, giving the lager a lighter, crisper, and slightly sweeter taste.
How many units is a lager top?
A lager top typically contains around the same number of alcohol units as the lager itself, with only a slight reduction due to the small amount of lemonade. For example, if a pint of lager is 2.3 units, a lager top might be just under 2.3 units, depending on the exact amount of lemonade added.
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