Dive into the World of Beer: A Beginner’s Guide

Are you curious about beer and want to learn more? With over 9,500 breweries in the United States alone, the vast array of beer styles can be overwhelming. But fear not! We spoke to certified cicerone Anne Becerra, who has over 13 years of experience in the beer industry, to guide us through the exciting world of beer.

Anne Becerra, the first woman in New York City to become a certified cicerone, fell in love with beer because of its incredible flavors. “I got into beer because I really love flavor—food, wine, spirits, and cocktails. Everything that’s exciting and fun to taste,” says Becerra. She was amazed by the variety of beers available and wanted to spread the word about this affordable and accessible beverage.

Contrary to popular belief, beer is not limited to a specific demographic. It’s a drink for everyone, regardless of their social status. It can be enjoyed alone or paired with a wide range of meals. Furthermore, beer remains the most consumed alcoholic beverage in the country, with 35 percent of Americans choosing beer as their go-to drink, according to a 2022 Gallup survey.

The craft beer movement has played a significant role in reshaping beer’s reputation as solely a blue-collar drink. California-based breweries like Sierra Nevada and Anchor Brewing kickstarted the craft beer scene over 40 years ago. Since then, the craft beer industry has flourished, and there are now countless beer options to choose from.

Understanding the brewing process can help you discover the flavors that appeal to you. Beer is made from four main ingredients: barley, water, hops, and yeast. Barley, the most common grain used in brewing, provides key sugars that fuel fermentation. Hops add bitterness and balance, while yeast ferments sugars and contributes unique flavors and aromas. Brewers have the creative freedom to experiment with these ingredients to create a wide range of flavors, from nutty and chocolaty to spicy and citrusy.

With so many beer styles available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, Becerra suggests starting with flagship beers from breweries. These reliable and sessionable brews (meaning they are easy to drink and lower in alcohol content) serve as a great starting point for those new to beer. By trying these trusted brews, you can gradually explore other styles and expand your palate.

Beer offers an exciting world of flavors to explore, much like wine, coffee, and food. “Beer is a fun way to play with flavor,” says Becerra. By embarking on a beer adventure, you can discover your own preferences and appreciate the complexity and diversity within the world of beer.

So, if you’re curious about beer, don’t hesitate to dive in and start exploring. With the guidance of experts like Anne Becerra, you’ll navigate the ocean of suds and discover the wonders of beer. Cheers!

Craft beer has experienced a resurgence in recent years, with a shift towards consistent, well-made, and affordable flagship styles. This change has allowed people to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the different breweries and their distinct styles.

When it comes to categorizing beer, there are two main categories: ales and lagers. Contrary to popular belief, the difference between the two lies not in their color or alcohol strength, but in the yeast and the fermentation process. Ales are top-fermented, while lagers are bottom-fermented. This means that they ferment at different times and temperatures, resulting in different flavor profiles.

Ales tend to be maltier and hoppier, giving them more fruity, nutty, and spicy aromatics. On the other hand, lagers are known for their cleaner, brighter, and more refreshing flavors. Understanding these differences can help you navigate the vast variety of beers available and find the ones that suit your taste preferences.

To further simplify the categorization, let’s take a look at some popular styles that fall under each category. Under the ale category, you’ll find India pale ale (IPA), porter, stout, sours, barley wine, and saison. These styles offer a wide range of flavors, from hop-forward to rich and complex.

If you’re more inclined towards lagers, you can look for styles such as pilsner, bock, dunkel, kölsch, and helles. These beers are often characterized by their crisp and clean taste, making them perfect for those who prefer a lighter and more refreshing brew.

Ultimately, the key to finding the perfect beer lies in knowing your flavor preferences. Whether you enjoy light and tart or rich and full-bodied flavors, there is a beer out there that will cater to your taste buds. With a multitude of styles available, ranging from sweet and rich to hop-driven with bitterness and herbaceous notes, there is something for everyone in the world of craft beer.

So, the next time you’re looking to try a new brew, take a moment to consider the different styles and categories. By understanding the basics of ales and lagers, you can embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, finding new favorites along the way.

Remember, beer is more than just a beverage. It’s a flavorful and diverse world waiting to be explored. So grab a pint, raise your glass, and cheers to the craft beer industry and its commitment to quality and variety.

(This blog post is based on an original article from Martha Stewart.)