Exploring Beer Drinking: Should You Start?

Drinking beer can be a pleasant milestone moment, but it's important to keep some things in mind before having your first drink. While there are no rules about when to drink, it's generally agreed that drinking before noon is bad form. If you're a first-time drinker, it's better to start with cocktails or options with low ABV (Alcohol-By-Volume) and always avoid drinking on an empty stomach. Beer, like wine, pairs well with food—lighter beers go with lighter foods, and darker beers go with heavier foods. If you're drinking beer, it's best to drink it cold and out of a glass, and always remember to drink responsibly.

Beer and food pairings

One way is to create a contrast between the beer and the food. For example, oysters have a strong, briny flavour that can stand up to the rich texture and chocolatey notes of a stout. The briny flavour of the oysters will shine through without being overpowered by the stout.

Another approach is to complement the flavours. Match rich foods with heavy and rich-flavoured beers, like stouts or porters. Pair light-tasting salads and fish with light beers, and wheat beers with fruit tarts.

Beer can also be used as a palate cleanser for dishes with bold or intense flavours, such as spicy foods or rich fried foods. A light, crisp beer can wash down the heat of a spicy dish, and similarly, fatty foods like French fries can help balance out the bitterness of an IPA.

It's important to avoid overpowering flavours. Many medium and dark beers have a rich and powerful flavour that can overwhelm certain types of food. For example, the flavour of a pint of Guinness would completely cover the taste of salmon.

• Light lagers: Spicy food, burgers, salads
• Wheat beers: Spicy food and fruity desserts
• India pale ales (IPAs): Steak, barbecue, and Mexican food
• Amber ales: Pizza, fried food, smoked pork
• Dark lagers: Pizza, burgers, hearty stews
• Brown ales: Sausage, sushi, fish
• Porters: Seafood, coffee-flavoured desserts, game meats
• Stouts: Chocolate desserts, shellfish, Mexican food

Choosing the right glass

Firstly, the shape of the glass can affect the head retention and development of your beer. The head is the frothy foam on top of your beer, which helps to retain its aroma. Certain glass shapes can be designed to trap the head, thereby enhancing the beer-drinking experience. For example, the wide mouth of a goblet or chalice maintains the head of the beer, while also allowing the drinker to take deep sips and analyse the aromas and flavour profile.

Secondly, the shape of the glass can affect the temperature of your beer. The handle on a glass mug, for instance, allows the beer to stay colder, as the warmth from your hand doesn't affect the beer's temperature. Conversely, the shape of a snifter encourages the hand's warmth to gently increase the beer's temperature.

Thirdly, the shape of the glass can affect the release of carbonation and the delivery of taste to the tongue. For instance, the curvature at the top of a Weizen glass traps the head and allows you to enjoy the full aroma and flavour of the beer. The skinny design of a pilsner glass helps to maintain the beer's carbonation and showcase its colour, clarity, and carbonation.

Finally, the size of the glass can also make a difference. A smaller glass intensifies aromas and flavours, while a larger one enhances the visual appeal and allows the beer to breathe. For example, a nonic, or British pint glass, is perfect for all beers except high-ABV types, as the curved bulge about two inches below the rim adds a second layer of flavour and aroma as the beer passes over it.

In conclusion, choosing the right glass for your beer can make all the difference in your tasting experience. Whether you're looking to enhance the aroma, flavour, or visual appeal, the right glassware can elevate your beer-drinking experience to the next level.

Serving temperature

When it comes to serving beer, temperature is key. While some people prefer their beer ice-cold, this can actually diminish the flavour. Colder beers tend to have less carbonation and therefore give off less aroma. However, beers that are too warm can be flat and off-flavoured.

The ideal temperature for serving beer depends on the type of beer. Here are some general guidelines:

Mass Market Light Lagers

This includes beers like Coors and Budweiser, which have a low ABV. These beers are best served between 35–40°F (2–4°C).

Czech and German Pilsners, Munich Helles, Wheat Beers, and Kölsch

These beers can be served slightly warmer, in the range of 40–45°F (4–7°C). While they are still served chilled, the slightly warmer temperature allows for more aroma and flavour to come through.

IPAs, American Pale Ales, Porters, and Most Stouts

The ideal temperature range for these beers is 45–50°F (7–10°C). Serving these beers too cold can diminish their flavour potential.

Belgian Ales, Sour Ales, Bocks, English Bitters and Milds, Scottish Ales

These beers are best served in the range of 50–55°F (10–13°C). The warmer temperature allows the flavours and notes of these beers to unlock.

Barleywines, Imperial Stouts, Belgian Strong Ales, and Doppelbocks

The ideal serving temperature for these beers is considered "cellar temperature", which is 55–60°F (13–16°C). This warmer temperature is ideal for high ABV and full-bodied beers.

It's important to note that these are just guidelines, and personal preference also plays a role in the ideal serving temperature. Some people prefer their beer colder or warmer than the recommended temperatures. Additionally, the specific brand and style of beer can also impact the ideal serving temperature.

Beer before noon

There are many differing opinions on whether it is acceptable to drink beer before noon. Some people believe that drinking before noon is unacceptable, whereas others believe that it is acceptable to drink whenever you want, as long as you don't have anything else you should be doing.

If you are going to drink beer before noon, it is important to follow some guidelines to ensure that you don't get too intoxicated and that you don't develop an unhealthy relationship with alcohol. Here are some tips for drinking beer before noon:

• Make sure you eat something before you start drinking. Drinking on an empty stomach can cause the alcohol to enter your bloodstream more quickly and lead to faster intoxication.
• Choose a lighter beer with a lower ABV (Alcohol-By-Volume). Lighter beers such as pilsners, light ales, and wheat beers are generally easier to drink and have a milder flavour.
• Take it slow. Don't feel pressured to drink quickly or to drink more than you are comfortable with. Nursing your drink slowly can help you avoid getting intoxicated.
• Space out your drinks. Drinking slowly and spacing out your drinks can help you enjoy your beer more and prevent you from getting drunk too quickly.
• Stay hydrated. Drink a glass of water between each beer to stay hydrated and help compensate for the dehydrating effects of alcohol.
• Be mindful of your surroundings and your responsibilities. It is generally not advisable to drink before noon if you have important tasks or responsibilities to take care of.

Drinking beer before noon can be acceptable in certain situations, such as vacations, holidays, or special events. However, it is important to be mindful of your consumption and to follow guidelines for responsible drinking to avoid any negative consequences.

Beer cocktails

Michelada

A classic Mexican drink, the Michelada is a savoury brunch-time favourite. It typically includes a Mexican lager, lime juice, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, and an array of spices. You can also add a small amount of mezcal for a smoky twist.

Margarita

Take the traditional mix of tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice, and top it with a Mexican lager for a refreshing summer drink.

Rye House Spring Beer Cocktail

This seasonal cocktail combines genever, applejack, loganberry liqueur, lime juice, ginger syrup, and lager beer. It's an unusual combination that's perfect for welcoming warmer weather.

Grapefruit Cooler

This cocktail is a twist on the Mexican Paloma. It combines tequila and Stiegl radler, balanced with fresh grapefruit and lime juices. It's a tall, cool, and refreshing drink with a slightly higher alcohol content than a typical Paloma.

Aperol Spritz

For a playful twist on the classic Italian aperitivo, swap the sparkling wine with a wheat beer. This adds a layer of bitter interest to the cocktail while still enjoying the full-bodied, sweet, and smooth taste of the amaro liqueur.

Shandy

A simple yet refreshing cocktail, the Shandy combines a lager with lemon/lime soda and the liquor of your choice. It's a great option for a hot day, providing a balanced mix of flavours.

Whether you're a beer lover or a cocktail enthusiast, these beer cocktail ideas offer a unique drinking experience that blends the best of both worlds. So, get creative, experiment with different beers and spirits, and discover your new favourite drink!

Frequently asked questions