Expert: Ed Westemeier - 1/25/2005

Question
Hello ! Mr.Westemeier, My questions concern Malt liquor beers. I really like the Domestic malt liquors {Mickey's,King Cobra,Colt 45,Olde English Etc.}.
Are these really true Malt liquors or are they American variations of Lager beers ?
Can you suggest some import Malt Liquors I could try that would be similiar in tase to what I am used to ?
I live in a large city and there are a couple of stores that cater to all kinds of import beers "but" I need some suggestions as to what brands.
Glad to see that you are devoting your time and knowledge to this Great subject !
Thanks !
Ron

Answer
As you probably suspected, they're just slightly stronger versions of standard American lagers. I agree that some of them can be good when you're in the mood for it.
Actually, there's no such thing as a Malt Liquor in terms of beer styles. It's just a marketing term, although a few states have legalized it as a term for any beers that are over a certain percentage of alcohol.

If you want to try a strong, pale colored beer with some real character, why not give ales a try instead of lagers? If you find them locally, you might want to check out Chimay (the white cap, not the red or blue), Piraat, Duvel, or Gulden Draak. Those are all strong golden ales from Belgium.
Ed