Beer is one of the oldest and most diverse beverages in the world, with a history spanning thousands of years. The first solid proof of beer production comes from the period of the Sumerians around 4,000 BCE.
From the bold bitterness of an IPA to the smooth richness of a stout, beer varieties cater to every palate.
For those new to the world of beer, understanding the differences between styles and flavors can feel overwhelming but we’re here to help. And if we have to drink a few along the way, then so be it. Dry January is overrated anyway.
When diving into beer exploration, trying something like the Carlton beer range can often serve as a gateway to discovering diverse flavours and styles. With so many options, knowing where to start is key. Let’s break down the basics of beer varieties, so you can enjoy every sip with confidence.
Types of Beer: A Flavour for Every Taste
The variety of beer styles can generally be organised into the following categories according to the method of brewing, the raw materials, and the fermentation techniques. Here are some of the more common types:
1. Lagers
Lagers are known for their clean, crisp and smooth finish. These are fermented at lower temperature to bring out the lightness and refreshment. Some popular examples are pilsners, bocks, and pale lager.
Perfect for: Hot summer days, or for those new to beer.
2. Ales
Ales are brews that undergo warm fermentation temperature, where complex and fruity esters and higher alcohols are formed. Their main features are pale ales, IPAs (India Pale Ales), and brown ales.
Perfect for: Bold flavor, aromatic, and bitter.
3. Stouts and Porters
These beers are a dark brew with prevailing coffee, chocolate, and roasted malt flavours. Similar but not entirely the same, it is noted that a stout has characteristics of a creamier texture while a porter tends to have a dryer finish.
Great for: Cozy nights or to accompany a dessert.
4. Wheat beers
The name itself reveals that wheat beers are made using a significant volume of wheat. These beers are light, slightly hazy, and sometimes have a hint of sweetness or spice..
Perfect for: Brunch or to add some refreshing twist.
5. Sours
Sour beer, generally, would be recognised by a tangy acidic palette, created by way of wild fermentation. They can drift from mildly to intensely sour.
For: Adventurous drinkers looking for something different.
Beer Pairing Tips for Every Occasion
Choosing the right beer can enhance meals and celebrations alike. Here are a few pairing tips to get started:
Lagers: Pair well with seafood, chicken, and salads.
Ales: Complement spicy dishes, barbecue, and hearty stews.
Stouts/Porters: Work wonderfully with chocolate desserts, roasted meats, and rich cheeses.
Wheat Beers: Enhance the flavors of citrusy or light dishes like fish tacos or summer salads.
Sours: Pair with fruit-based desserts or light appetisers.
Tasting Tips for Beginners
Exploring beer varieties doesn’t have to be intimidating. Follow these simple steps to ease into the world of beer tasting:
Start Light
Begin with lagers or wheat beers, which are less intense and more approachable for beginners.
Experiment with Styles
Try small pours of various types to discover what suits your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Pair with Food
Enhance your experience by enjoying beer with complementary dishes. For instance, a stout with chocolate or a lager with seafood.
Observe and Reflect
Pay attention to the beer’s aroma, appearance, and flavors. Take note of its aftertaste and what you enjoy most about it.
Crafting the Perfect Beer Experience
With the proliferation of craft breweries across the globe, the beer lover has developed opportunities more than ever before to taste something and anything else. Whether you go commercial or small-batch local, here are ways to make the most of your beer journey:
Attend Beer Festivals
Beer festivals are an event where you put a competitive brew in one place for sampling. There are opportunities to meet the beer experts and get to know more about their craft.
Visit Breweries
Most breweries usually conduct tours for visitors that show everyone how a beer is made and usually give access to some tastings of different seasonal or limited-edition beers.
Create Home Tasting Kit
You can create your own beer tasting experience by buying different types and hosting a tasting with friends.
The Social Side of Beer
Beer is a drink, but first and foremost, it should be a shared experience. From boisterous meetings in the pubs to select events in which one carries out beer tasting, beer creates connections with people around the globe and forges links between them.
Sharing various beer styles among friends would be a source of enjoyment and great memories.
Whether it's trying to find a new favourite style or re-discovering an old favourite, beer brings people together in celebration and conversation.
It is one of those practices that get carried across cultures and occasions, as every sip is a moment to connect over and share one's stories.
Cheers to Your Beer Journey
Exploring the world of beer can be an adventure – whether it's sipping a cold lager, diving into the depth of stouts, or just sampling craft brews. So, grab a pint and raise it to your new-found knowledge; enjoy every drop on the way.
But remember: always drink responsibly.
