This is where it gets a little tricky and not to insult the old stalwarts, but...

Budweiser, Miller, Coors, Becks, Heineken, Kirin, Spaten and St. Pauli are not really ales. They might have a variety that is an ale, but, for the most part the 'off the shelf' variety is a golden lager that is brewed to be a little bitter.

Lagers are fermented at lower temperatures and are aged for a longer period of time. Smooth, crisp and fizzy tastes and aromes are characteristic.