There are limitless styles and types of beers and their flavor characteristics depend on the talent and creativity of the brewmaster. Ales are beers that utilize a top fermenting yeast which functions at warm temperatures. It is the classic yeast and process originally used for fermentation. Lighter colored ales are generally lighter in taste. Ales are typically fruity in style with much complexity of taste.
Lagers are beers that utilize a bottom fermenting yeast, which function at cool temperatures.
The beer is allowed to mature at cold temperatures and often have a nice spritziness. Lighter colored lagers are lighter in taste, with characteristic hoppy notes. Darker lagers are heartier with more of the flavor of the malt coming through. These darker versions, like Octoberfests, often give a sweeter, less bitter perception. Wheat beers' undisputed claim to Fame are their great thirst quenching qualities.