Whats the difference between ginger beer (not alcoholic) & ginger ale?

Question

& is ginger beer supposed to be "fiery"? (ie tesco fiery ginger beer, tastes like they put chilis or something in it... bleurgh... ) whats the deal? i was looking forward to it & not so sure anymore... =( lol wish i got ginger ale instead now!

Answer 1

Ginger Beer is made to be drunk on its own as a sweet drink albeit rather "hot" - but that's what ginger IS ! whereas Ginger Ale is made as a mixer - mainly for use with whiskey and is consequently not so sweet - hence trade names like "Canada Dry".

Answer 2

I know that there is more ginger in ginger beer. It has a better bite to it. Other than that I believe they are the same.

Answer 3

Ginger beer is more spicy (and sweet) ginger ale is more mellow and clearer.

Answer 4

Ginger beer is usually made with plain water, ginger ale with carbonated water. Other than that the formulas are similar.The more ginger, the more bitter the taste.