What volume of CO2 is typical for American ales and European lagers?

The typical volume of CO2 for American ales and European lagers generally falls within the range of 2.2 to 2.7 volumes. This CO2 level contributes to the desired carbonation and mouthfeel characteristic of these beer styles. Ales tend to have slightly lower carbonation than lagers, but the ranges do overlap, particularly with American styles that can utilize higher carbonation levels for a refreshing effect.

The range of 2.2 to 2.7 volumes allows for a balance that enhances the drinkability of the beer while maintaining the integrity of the flavors and aromas. Higher volumes can lead to a more effervescent profile, which might be desirable in certain styles, but excessive carbonation can mask flavors and lead to an unbalanced profile.

In contrast, options outside this range either understate or overstate typical levels of carbonation for these beer categories, making them less representative of what is commonly accepted in brewing practices for American ales and European lagers.