German Beer Classifications
In Germany, beers are classified according to their extract values for tax purposes. There are four categories.
Einfachbier
Einfachbiers (translated "simple beers") have an extract value of 1.5-6.9%, which usually produces an alcohol by volume level of 0.5 to 1.5%. These beers accounts for no more than 0.1% market share in Germany.
Schankbier
Schankbiers have an extract value of 7-10.9% and their alcohol by volume levels fall between 0.5 and 2.6%. Very few beers fall into this category; they account for only about 0.2% market share of the German beer industry.
Vollbier
Vollbiers (translated "full beers") have an extract value of 11-15.9%. These beers usually have between 3 and 5.3% alcohol by volume. This beer category accounts for 99% market share of the German beer industry.
Starkbier
All beers with an extract value exceeding 16% are Starkbiers (translated "strong beers"). Their alcohol level is between 5% and 10%. Starkbiers account for 0.7% market share of the German beer industry. |
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