Choosing beer can feel overwhelming, but sticking with familiar brands—or picking bottles based on price, popularity, or rarity—may keep you from finding something you genuinely enjoy. Beer experts say a few simple changes can make shopping easier and help you discover new favorites.

Start with freshness and storage

Look for beer kept cold, since lower temperatures help preserve its flavor. Check package dates and, when possible, choose the freshest option. Beer exposed to warmth or direct light can lose quality more quickly, especially in clear or green glass bottles.

Choose by taste, not price or hype

A higher price doesn’t guarantee better beer—or a flavor you’ll like. Affordable craft lagers can be well made, while a popular style such as an IPA may be too bitter for your preferences. Rather than following trends, think about the qualities you enjoy: crispness, bitterness, fruitiness, maltiness, or a refreshing finish.

Alcohol content is no measure of quality, either. A lower-ABV beer can have plenty of character, while a stronger one isn’t necessarily more flavorful. Consider ABV when deciding how much you plan to drink, but choose based on the taste and experience you want.

Don’t write off a whole style

Beer styles are broad categories, not guarantees that every beer will taste alike. Two IPAs or pilsners can differ substantially, so disliking one example doesn’t mean you’ll dislike them all. The season and what you’ve eaten or drunk recently can also affect how a beer tastes. A light lager may suit a warm day, while a richer beer might feel more appealing in colder weather.

If you already like a brewery, try other beers in its lineup, including seasonal releases. Familiar brewers often make different styles that still suit your palate.

Ask for help and try something new

At a bar, ask the bartender what a beer tastes like or whether you can sample it. Staff at a beer shop can also point you toward options that match the flavors you like. Instead of simply naming your usual brand or style, describe what you enjoy about it.

There’s nothing wrong with having a go-to beer, but exploring gradually can uncover new favorites. You don’t need to chase the rarest, strongest, or most complicated option: a well-balanced, straightforward beer can be just as rewarding.

Finally, match the packaging to your plans. Cans are generally more practical for outdoor activities and travel, while bottles may be better suited to enjoying at home or over dinner.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.