Choosing Your First Beer: A Beginner's Guide

If you're about to drink beer for the first time, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, don't feel pressured to drink just because others are; start with low-ABV options, and take it slow. Cocktails are a good choice for beginners as the alcohol is often masked by syrups and juices, but be aware that you might drink them faster as a result. Make sure you don't drink on an empty stomach, as food slows the flow of alcohol into your bloodstream. It's also important to space out your drinks and stay hydrated by drinking water alongside your beer.

Beer recommendations for first-timers

If you're new to drinking beer, it's a good idea to start with options that have a low ABV (Alcohol by Volume). This signifies the percentage of ethanol (alcohol) in a given volume of the drink. Cocktails are a good way to start—go for something tall, fizzy, and slightly sweet, where the alcohol is masked by syrups and juices.

Beer-wise, it's best to begin with something not too strong or complex. Wheat beers are a good option, as they are not too bitter and are still clearly beers. Some recommendations in this category include Erdinger and Paulaner. Belgian Wheat beers are also a good choice for newcomers, as they are not too bitter or complex, and are widely available and reasonably priced. Try the Weihenstaphaner Hefe Weissbier, which is brimming with history and German wheat beer's flavours of banana and clove.

If you enjoy sweeter flavours, fruity beers might be up your alley. St. Ambroise Apricot Ale and Fruli are good options to start with. For something a little more exotic, try Young's Double Chocolate Stout or Rogue's Chocolate Stout. If you're looking for something lighter, pilsners are a good option. Pilsner Urquell is the style's best-known and most-loved iteration, crafted in Plzen in the Czech Republic.

Beer types and flavours

There are two main categories of beer: ales and lagers. Ales are brewed at warmer temperatures than lagers, resulting in a faster fermentation process and a more complex flavour profile. Lagers, on the other hand, are known for their crisp, clean taste and are typically brewed at cooler temperatures.

Within these two main categories, there are several different types of beer, each with its unique flavour profile. Here are some of the most common types:

• India Pale Ale (IPA): Known for its bold hop flavours and aromas, IPAs originated in England in the 19th century and have since evolved into various subcategories, including American IPA, Double IPA, and New England IPA.
• Stout: A dark, rich beer with robust flavours and a creamy mouthfeel. Stouts typically have mid-to-high alcohol levels and pair well with hearty dishes like roasted meats and stews.
• Porter: Similar to stout, porter is a dark and robust style of beer with a complex flavour profile that often includes notes of caramel, toffee, and dark fruit.
• Pilsner: Pilsners are light, crisp lagers with a clean, refreshing taste. They are perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses.
• Wheat Beer: Made with wheat as the malt, wheat beers have a tangy, refreshing taste. American pale wheat beer is a popular choice for those looking for a light and easy-drinking option.
• Pale Ale: Pale ales offer a balanced mix of hoppy bitterness and malt sweetness. They are lower in alcohol content than IPAs and pair well with a variety of dishes.
• Bock: A traditional German-style beer with a rich malt character and robust flavours. Bock beers are higher in alcohol content and can range from pale to dark in colour.
• Brown Ale: A malt-forward beer with a deep amber-to-dark brown colour and flavours of caramel, nuts, and toffee. Brown ales are smooth and easy to drink, making them a great choice for those looking for an approachable beer.
• Belgian Beer: Known for their spiced fruity flavours and high alcohol content, Belgian beers are usually low in bitterness. Belgian-style ales encompass a wide range of styles, from fruity and spicy to complex and yeasty.

These are just a few examples of the many different types of beer available. Each style has its unique flavour profile, so it's worth exploring and experimenting to find the ones that suit your taste preferences.

How to drink beer

Drinking beer for the first time can be quite a milestone moment. Here are some tips on how to drink beer:

Choosing the Right Beer

• Start with beers that have a low ABV (Alcohol-By-Volume). ABV signifies the percentage of ethanol (alcohol) in a given volume of drink.
• If you are not a fan of beer, it just means you haven't found the right beer for you. There are infinite varieties of beers to try, from ales to lagers to stouts.
• If you find a beer overpowering, transition to a lighter style. Lighter beers are less fermented and won't be as bitter.
• On the other hand, if you find a beer weak or watery, try brews with more intense flavours, like porters and stouts.
• Beers are classified by their brewing styles, the amount of time they're allowed to ferment, and the ingredients used. The more styles you try, the more likely you are to find one that's pleasing to you.
• Try craft beers from microbreweries, which use their own proprietary recipes.
• Try beers from other countries, as they may use different ingredients or brewing techniques, resulting in unique flavours.

Preparing the Beer

• Clean your beer glass with hot water beforehand to avoid any interference with the true flavour of your beer.
• Store beer in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat, and at a constant temperature.
• Ideally, most beers should be kept around 50–60 °F (10–16 °C).
• Stronger beers, like barley wines, are best enjoyed just below room temperature, while standard ales should be at "cellar temperature" (around 50–55 °F or 10–13 °C).
• Lighter beers, like lagers, should be refrigerated (around 45–50 °F or 7–10 °C).
• The pint glass is not the best option for drinking beer. It allows your hands to warm the beer, lets aromas escape, and doesn't retain the foam. A wine glass is a better alternative.
• Tip the glass at a 45-degree angle when pouring the beer to get the perfect amount of "head" or foam.
• Avoid swirling the beer to release aroma, as this will also release carbonation and cause the head to disappear.

Drinking the Beer

• Beer should not be served ice-cold. As beer warms, aromas are released, and flavours become easier to detect.
• Beer colour does not indicate alcohol content, flavour, or mouthfeel.
• Beer does not need to be served ice-cold. As beer warms, aromas are released, and flavours become easier to detect.
• Beer colour does not indicate alcohol content, flavour, or mouthfeel.
• Beer does not need to be served ice-cold. As beer warms, aromas are released, and flavours become easier to detect.
• Beer colour does not indicate alcohol content, flavour, or mouthfeel.
• Examine the colour and carbonation of the beer. Hold it up and observe its colour and the head.
• Swirl the beer gently and smell it to detect its aroma.
• Take small, thoughtful sips and let the beer linger on your tongue to pick up on flavours and sensations.
• Beer can be paired with food, just like wine. Lighter beers go well with lighter foods like salads and fish, while darker beers complement heavier foods and meatier meats.
• Beer should be drunk in a comfortable setting. Atmosphere can play a big part in how much you enjoy the beer.

Food pairings

If you're new to beer, it can be a little daunting to know where to start, but luckily there are some great, accessible options that will pair well with a variety of foods.

For a classic, easy-drinking introduction to beer, you could try a Pilsner. This style of beer is known for its crisp, clean taste and refreshing quality. Pilsners typically have a light golden colour and a subtle, pleasant bitterness. They are highly versatile and food-friendly, pairing well with a wide range of dishes. For a simple, yet delicious pairing, try a Pilsner with a classic pub meal like fish and chips, a juicy burger, or a fresh, crispy salad. The crispness of the beer will cut through the richness of fried foods, and its carbonation will refresh your palate between bites.

Another great option for a first-time beer drinker is a wheat beer, often referred to as a Witbier or a Hefeweizen. These beers are characterised by their cloudy, golden appearance and their light, refreshing flavour. Wheat beers often have notes of citrus and spice, making them an excellent choice for pairing with food. Try a wheat beer with a summery salad, a fruit-based dessert, or a plate of seafood. The beer's citrus characteristics will complement these dishes beautifully. Wheat beers also go well with spicy foods, as the beer's refreshing quality can help to cool down your palate.

If you're looking for a darker beer option, a Dunkel is a great choice. Dunkel means "dark" in German, and these beers have a rich, toasted malt flavour without being overly heavy. They often have a hint of sweetness and a smooth, balanced finish. Dunkel beers pair wonderfully with barbecued foods, especially grilled meats like sausages or steak. The slight char from the barbecue and the toasted notes in the beer create a delicious flavour combination. They also go well with hearty, comfort foods like stews and casseroles.

Finally, for a truly versatile beer that will please most palates, you can't go wrong with a Pale Ale. This style offers a good balance of malt and hop characteristics, making it a great introduction to the world of craft beer. Pale Ales have a crisp, bitter edge that is not overwhelming, and often feature fruity or floral notes. They are excellent with pizza, as the beer's carbonation cuts through the richness of the cheese, and its hoppy notes complement the tomato base. Pale Ales are also a good choice for pairing with spicy foods, as the beer's bitterness can help to temper the heat.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions, and the wonderful world of beer is yours to explore. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations and samples at your local bottle shop or bar, and you'll soon discover your own personal favourites.

Beer and health

Beer is a popular alcoholic beverage with a long history, dating back to ancient civilisations in Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Babylon. While it is well-loved by many, the health implications of beer consumption are complex and multifaceted. Here is an overview of the potential benefits and risks associated with drinking beer.

Beer is a fermented beverage typically made from natural ingredients such as grains, hops, and yeast. This fermentation process results in a drink that contains small amounts of valuable nutrients, minerals, and vitamins, and antioxidants.

Heart Health

Moderate beer consumption has been linked to improved heart health. Several studies suggest that consuming one to two beers per day may help lower the risk of heart disease. Beer may be as effective as wine in improving general heart health when consumed in comparable amounts. Additionally, moderate drinking has been associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease and overall mortality.

Blood Sugar Control

Drinking light amounts of alcohol, including beer, may help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Some studies indicate that consuming one to two alcoholic drinks per day could lower the risk of diabetes by up to 50%. This benefit is more pronounced with low-sugar beers, such as light beers.

Bone Strength

Early research suggests that moderate beer consumption may contribute to increased bone strength in both men and postmenopausal women. However, this benefit sharply declines when consumption exceeds two drinks per day, emphasising the importance of moderation.

While moderate beer consumption may offer some health benefits, excessive drinking can lead to various health problems. Here are some of the potential risks associated with heavy beer consumption:

Addiction

Like all alcoholic beverages, beer carries the potential for dependency and addiction. Heavy drinking can lead to alcohol use disorder, and individuals with a family history of addiction should exercise caution when consuming beer or any other type of alcohol.

Reduced Life Expectancy

Consuming more than two beers per day is significantly associated with a reduced life expectancy. Studies indicate that heavy drinking can decrease life expectancy by up to 28 years.

Liver Disease

Drinking more than the recommended amount of beer can increase the chances of developing fatty liver disease or cirrhosis.

Weight Gain

Beer is often associated with the term "beer belly" for a reason. Many beers are high in calories, and frequent consumption can lead to substantial weight gain and an increased waist circumference.

Beer, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle for adults. However, excessive consumption can lead to various health risks. It is essential to drink responsibly, be mindful of alcohol content, and always prioritise health and safety.

Frequently asked questions