Choosing The Perfect Beer: A Guide To Your Taste

Beer is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on various occasions, ranging from everyday casual settings to special celebrations. It offers a wide range of flavours, from light and crisp to robust, catering to different preferences. With the rise of craft beer, the options are more diverse than ever, making it a fun adventure to explore the different styles and regional specialties.

When it comes to choosing the right beer, several factors come into play. The colour of a beer, for instance, can provide valuable insight into the flavours and textures one can expect. The art of beer tasting involves examining the appearance, aroma, and taste, all of which contribute to the overall experience.

In this discussion, we will delve into the fascinating world of beer, exploring different types, tasting techniques, food pairings, and perhaps even discovering some unique brews along the way. So, get your pint glasses ready as we embark on a journey to answer the age-old question: What beer do I want to drink?

Beer colour and its meaning

When it comes to choosing a beer, colour can be a deciding factor. While it may not be a reliable indicator of flavour, it can evoke certain expectations and subliminally influence our drinking experience. Here is a guide to help you understand what different beer colours mean and how they might affect your drinking experience:

Golden, Straw Blonde, or Pale Beers:

These beers, often including pilsners and witbiers, are usually very light in colour, ranging from pale straw to golden blonde. They may evoke expectations of refreshment and are often associated with crisp, light flavours. These beers are typically not roasted for long and have shorter mashing times, resulting in a lighter colour.

Amber or Red Beers:

Beers in the amber colour family, such as pale ales, tend to have a deeper hue ranging from light straw to copper or reddish tones. These beers often have a more complex flavour profile and may offer a balance of sweet and bitter notes. The amber hue in many beers is a result of the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction that occurs during the brewing process, creating melanoidins that contribute to the colour.

Brown Beers:

Brown ales and porters often fall into this category, with shades ranging from light brown to mahogany. These beers can have malty, roasted flavours and are often associated with cosy, comforting drinking experiences. The longer the grains are kilned or heated, the darker the colour of the beer.

Black Beers:

Stouts and certain porters are known for their almost black colour. Despite their dark appearance, these beers may not be as strong as they seem. The roasting process plays a significant role in determining the colour of these beers, with longer roasting times resulting in darker hues. Black beers can have intense, bitter flavours and are often enjoyed with roasted or smoked foods.

Fruit Beers:

Fruit beers, such as cherry lambics or raspberry ales, derive their colour from the addition of fruits or fruit extracts. These beers can have bright, vibrant colours, especially if the fruit is added in the form of juice. The type of fruit used can also influence the flavour and aroma of the beer.

Cloudy or Hazy Beers:

Some beers, like hefeweizens and New England IPAs, are intentionally cloudy or hazy. This can be a result of yeast left in suspension or other brewing techniques. The opacity of these beers adds a layer of complexity to the drinking experience and challenges the traditional idea of beer clarity.

In conclusion, while beer colour may not be a perfect indicator of flavour, it can still play a significant role in our drinking experience. The art of brewing involves carefully manipulating ingredients and processes to achieve the desired colour and flavour profile. So, the next time you're choosing a beer, consider how the colour might influence your expectations and enjoy discovering the unique flavours that each beer colour has to offer!

Beer tasting techniques

There are many beers to choose from, and it can be challenging to find the best brew. From light beers to stouts, there is a wide variety of suds to suit different tastes. Here are some tips and techniques to help you refine your beer-tasting skills and find the perfect brew for you.

Environment and Palate Preparation:

Before you begin tasting, it is important to create the right environment and prepare your palate. Find a quiet place without distractions so you can give the beer your undivided attention. Have a glass of cool water (preferably spring water) and some plain crackers or French bread to help cleanse your palate between tastings. Avoid tasting on a full stomach, especially after a greasy or spicy meal, as this can hinder your experience.

Glassware and Pouring:

Use a clean glass, preferably a tulip glass, to taste your beer. If the beer has low carbonation, pour it straight into the centre of the glass to agitate it and create a head of foam. If it has high carbonation, tilt the glass to control the head size.

Appearance:

Pay attention to the appearance of the beer, including its colour, clarity, and amount of sediment. Use a white background or natural light to get the most accurate view.

Aroma:

Swirl the beer gently, especially in warmer air, to release the flavours and aromas. Put your nose into the glass and inhale deeply several times. If you need to, cup the glass in your hands to warm the beer and release more aromas. Cover the glass with your palm and swirl for a few seconds to trap the aromas before smelling again.

Taste:

Take a small sip of the beer, enough to coat your mouth. Let it touch your lips, gums, teeth, and all around your tongue. When you swallow, keep your mouth closed and exhale through your nose. Focus on the initial flavours, intermediate flavours, and aftertaste. Take another sip, this time paying attention to the weight of the beer and comparing it to other beers of the same style.

Overall Enjoyment and Evaluation:

Consider your overall enjoyment of the beer. Did it meet your expectations? Were there any flaws in the aroma, flavour, appearance, taste, or mouthfeel? Take notes on your thoughts and feelings about the beer to help you remember and evaluate it later.

Beer Styles:

When choosing a beer to taste, consider starting with "crossover" beers similar to what you know, such as lagers, pilsners, or blonde ales. If you are feeling adventurous, try bolder styles like English or American Pale Ales, which have high hop bitterness and a strong fruity aroma. For something unique, go for a Belgian Pale Ale, which has more spice and aroma from the malt and yeast.

Remember, the most important thing is to relax and have fun with your beer tasting journey!

Beer glassware

The glassware you use to drink beer can significantly impact your drinking experience. Different shapes and styles of glassware have been developed over the years to enhance the experience of drinking different beer styles. Here are some common types of beer glassware:

Pint Glasses

The pint glass is the most common and versatile type of beer glass. American pint glasses typically hold 16 ounces and have a slightly wider mouth than the base, making them suitable for a wide range of beer styles. On the other hand, Imperial pint glasses, commonly used in Europe, hold 20 ounces and feature a small lip at the mouth. They are suitable for British ales and lagers.

Pilsner Glasses

Pilsner glasses are tall, slim, and slightly wider at the mouth, showcasing the sparkle, clarity, and bubbles of pilsners and other lighter beers. They usually hold 12 to 14 ounces of beer and help retain the beer's head to keep the aromatic compounds locked in.

Tulip Glasses

Tulip glasses, also known as Belgian glasses, have a bulbous body and a flared lip. They are designed to capture the head and promote the aroma and flavor of Belgian ales and other malty, hoppy beers. The short stem facilitates swirling, further enhancing the sensory experience.

Thistle Glasses

Thistle glasses are a modified version of tulip glasses, resembling Scotland's national flower, the thistle. They have a short stem, a bulbous bottom, and an elongated top section that is sharper and more angular than the tulip glass. Thistle glasses are suitable for Scotch ales and wee heavy beers.

Goblet/Chalice Glasses

Goblet and chalice glasses have a large, head-retaining round bowl and a thick stem. Chalice bowls tend to have thicker walls. They are often decorative and may feature intricate etching or precious metal inlaying. Their wide-mouth design promotes big, hearty sips and is suitable for heavy, dark beers like Belgian IPAs and strong dark ales.

Weizen Glasses

Weizen glasses, or wheat beer glasses, are taller than pint glasses and showcase the golden hue of wheat beers. They have a curved profile that traps sediment and yeast at the bottom and a wider mouth to promote a foamy head and capture the beer's aroma. Weizen glasses typically hold about half a liter of beer.

Stange Glasses

Stange glasses, named after the German word for "rod" or "stick," are narrow, straight, and cylindrical. They resemble champagne flutes and are used for delicate beers such as Kolsch, lambics, and Czech pilsners. The stange glass concentrates soft hop and malt aromas while preserving carbonation.

Beer Mugs

Beer mugs, including the traditional German beer stein, are classic pub glassware. They come in various shapes and sizes but always have a handle to prevent heat transfer from the drinker's hand to the beer. Mugs are suitable for a wide range of beer styles, including American, German, English, and Irish beers.

Teku Stemmed Beer Glasses

The Teku glass is widely recognised as one of the finest craft beer glasses available. Designed by an Italian sensory expert and craft brewer, it features a tulip-like bowl, a thin lip, and a long stem that keeps the beer cool. The Teku glass is suitable for a wide range of beer styles but is particularly recommended for lambics and other sour beers.

Beer and food pairings

Beer is a versatile drink, and with so many types to choose from, it can be a great complement to food. From light and crisp lagers to rich and silky stouts, there is a beer to pair with almost any dish.

Light Lagers

The light and refreshing nature of this style makes it ideal for spicy foods, burgers, and salads. It is one of the most popular beers in the US and often has a low alcohol content.

Wheat Beers

Wheat beers have a smooth texture and light carbonation. They are very versatile and can be paired with many dishes, especially spicy food and fruity desserts.

India Pale Ales (IPAs)

IPAs are bitter and often have added citrus or herbal tones. They are a good match for steak, barbecue, and Mexican food.

Amber Ales

With a dry and crisp finish, amber ales are great for cleansing the palate. Try pairing with pizza, fried food, or smoked pork.

Dark Lagers

Popular in Europe, these beers have a nutty flavour and slight hint of sweetness. They are an excellent complement to traditional hearty European dishes, such as pizza and burgers.

Brown Ales

With hints of chocolate and coffee, brown ales are versatile and pair well with many foods. Try them with sausage, sushi, or fish.

Porters

Originating in London, porters are known for their distinctive dark colour, toasty aroma, and rich roasted flavour. They are an ideal match for seafood, coffee-flavoured desserts, and game meats.

Stouts

Stouts are famous for their black colour and silky smooth texture. They have hints of chocolate and coffee and are a perfect match for chocolate desserts and shellfish.

Beer and health

Beer is a fermented alcoholic beverage made from cereal grains, yeast, hops, and other flavouring agents. It typically contains 4-6% alcohol, but this can range from 0.5-40%. Beer has been consumed for thousands of years and is deeply ingrained in many cultures and traditions.

The relationship between moderate alcohol use and health is complex. While excessive alcohol consumption is harmful, drinking small amounts of alcohol may have some beneficial effects for people over 40. For younger people, the amount of alcohol that minimises health risks is close to zero.

Positive Effects

Beer contains B vitamins and minerals, and some types also contain antioxidants. Research supports a number of potential health benefits to drinking moderate amounts of beer. These include:

• Improved heart health: Several reviews suggest that consuming one to two beers a day may help lower the risk of heart disease. Beer may be as effective at improving general heart health as wine, at comparable alcohol levels.
• Improved blood sugar levels: Light alcohol consumption may help reduce the risk of developing diabetes and help people with diabetes control their blood sugar more effectively. One study showed that one to two alcoholic drinks a day could lower the risk of developing diabetes by as much as 50%.
• Increased bone strength: Early research suggests that moderate amounts of beer may help strengthen bones for men and postmenopausal women. However, this benefit sharply drops when consumption passes two drinks per day.
• Reduced dementia risk: Light to moderate alcohol intake may lower the risk of dementia. However, heavy alcohol intake can instead increase the risk.

Negative Effects

Heavy or binge drinking is associated with a range of negative health effects, including:

• Potential for addiction: All alcohol carries the potential for dependency. Alcohol is an addictive substance, so people with a family history of addiction should be cautious.
• Reduced life expectancy: Heavy consumption significantly increases the risk of death from all causes. Studies show that heavy drinking reduces life expectancy by up to 28 years.
• Increased risk of liver disease: Drinking more than two beers a day can increase the chances of developing fatty liver disease or cirrhosis.
• Weight gain: Beer is high in calories, so drinking large amounts frequently can lead to substantial weight gain.
• Cancer: Research has found that 44.4% of cancer deaths and 42% of disability-adjusted life years are attributable to modifiable risk factors like smoking, unhealthy diet, drinking alcohol, and high BMI.

Frequently asked questions