Those from the watering hole concealed by elevated Japanese Laurels (4)

I believe the answer is:

ales

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'laurels' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are plural nouns, I cannot understand how one could define the other.

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ales that I've seen before include "Types of beer" , "What might be delivered by pumps" , "A sale of beers" , "Alcoholic drinks" .)

I've seen this clue in the Irish Times and the Irish Times (Crosaire).

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.