Department of State redirects here. For the term as used in Ireland, see Department of State (Ireland). The United States Department of State (DOS), often referred to as the State Department, is the United States federal executive department that advises the President and leads the country in foreign policy issues.
The Difference Between Ginger Ale and Ginger Beer. Ginger beer was originally an alcoholic brew made from fermenting ginger, sugar, and water, although most commercial ginger beers nowadays are non-alcoholic. Ginger ale is a non-alcoholic, sweetened, ginger-flavored soft drink. Ginger beer is stronger-tasting and spicier than ginger ale, but less carbonated.
Note, however, that ginger beer was traditionally made not with pure yeast, but with a mixed culture of lactobacilli and yeasts that is sometimes called a âGinger beer plantâ or a âBeeswineâ culture. This is similar to a kefir culture and can be maintained and passed on to others who wish to make ginger beer.n late 19th century Britain, âsmall beersâ were fermented drinks with a very low alcohol content. These were usually safer to drink than water, which was often contaminated. Ginger beer originated in England in the mid-1700s and was exported worldwide.