Altbier is a dark German beer made with traditional top fermentation. Originating from the Rhineland region, it has an alcohol content of about 4.8%.
History
Altbier originated in the Rhineland region, now part of North Rhine-Westphalia. Until the 16th century, it was the only type of beer produced in northern Germany. The name 'Altbier' was adopted in the 1800s when lager beer became popular. Before this, it was simply called 'beer' in Westphalia.
How it is made
Altbier is brewed using traditional top fermentation at temperatures of 15-20°C. It has a distinct hop flavor, a clear copper-red color, and stable foam. In Düsseldorf bars, it is typically served in 200 ml portions rather than large glasses.
Adapted from the Russian Wikipedia article Альтбир, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.