For those new to the world of beer, the sheer number of options can be both exciting and overwhelming. Beer has a rich history and a wide variety of tastes, aromas and styles. It is not just a simple alcoholic drink, but a complex drink that can provide a wide variety of taste experiences. Newbies often don’t know where to start because the wrong choice can lead to a less pleasant first encounter with beer. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of beer that are often great for beginners, taking into account factors such as flavor profile, bitterness level, and overall drinkability. By understanding these aspects, beginners can make more informed choices and start their beer tasting journey with a positive attitude.
Lager – a classic and easy to drink option
Lagers are one of the most popular types of beer in the world and are usually a good starting point for beginners. They are known for their clean, crisp and refreshing taste. Compared to other beer types, lagers are fermented at lower temperatures for a longer period of time. This slow fermentation process produces a smooth and mild flavor.
Pilsner: A type of pilsner beer with a light color and a pronounced hop aroma. They usually have a moderate bitterness, nicely balanced by a slightly sweet malty taste. Brands such as Czechvar or Pilsner Urquell are good examples. Pilsner’s light body and clear appearance make it very approachable. They usually have just the right amount of carbonation to give a pleasant frothy feel. The bitterness of the hops is not strong, allowing the drinker to appreciate the overall flavor without being intimidated by excessive bitterness.
American-style beers: These beers are usually mass-produced and widely available. They have a very mild taste with very low bitterness. Brands such as Budweiser or Miller Lite fall into this category. American lagers are highly carbonated and have a pale straw-colored appearance. Their simplicity and ease of drinking make them a popular choice for those who are just beginning to explore beer. They’re great for casual drinking and can be paired with a variety of foods, especially light ones like burgers and fries.
Wheat Beer – a light and fruity option
Wheat beers are another good choice for beginners, as they are light and often fruity. In addition to barley malt, they also contain a significant portion of wheat.
Hefeweizen: This German-style wheat beer is unfiltered and looks cloudy. It has a distinctive banana and clove aroma that comes from the yeast used in the brewing process. hefeweizen beers are generally low in bitterness and have a smooth, delicate taste. Paolana is a well-known brand. Fruity and spicy flavors make it a unique beer for novices. It is best served with a slice of lemon, which enhances the citrus flavor and adds a refreshing feel.
American Wheat beers: These beers have a lighter body and softer taste than Hefei beers. They usually have a hint of citrus or fruit. Blue Moon is a popular American wheat beer. The palate is slightly sweet with a smooth finish. American wheat beer is versatile and can be paired with salads, seafood or light appetizers. Their mild flavor makes them a great choice for those who prefer a less complicated beer experience.
Belgian beer – rich and delicious selection
Belgian beer is known for its complex taste and unique brewing tradition. While some Belgian ales can be very strong and intense, there are some that are suitable for beginners.
Belgian Witbier: Witbier is light colored and flavored with coriander and orange zest. They have a refreshing and slightly sour taste. hoeggarden is a famous Witbier in Belgium. The combination of spices and a hint of malt creates a delightfully aromatic beer. This is a great option for those who like beer to have a bit of complexity, but don’t want it to be too heavy or bitter. Willies are usually served with a slice of orange, which complements the citrus and spicy notes.
Belgian Golden Ale: This ale has a golden color and a balanced flavor. They have a moderate alcohol content and a smooth texture. Leffe Blonde is a well-known example. Belgian golden ale has a hint of malty sweetness and a hint of hop bitterness. Their complex yet approachable taste makes them suitable for beginners who want to explore more flavorful beers without jumping into very strong Belgian styles.
Indian Pale Ale (IPA) – for hop lovers in training
ipa is known for its high hop content and strong bitterness. However, for beginners who are interested in hoppy beer, there are some gentler options.
Conference IPAs: Conference IPAs have a lower alcohol content compared to traditional IPAs. They have a moderate bitterness and a rich hop aroma. Brands like Founders All Day IPA are popular. The alcohol content is low and you can enjoy a few beers without being overly intoxicated. Hop flavors can range from citrusy to floral, introducing the world of hop beer in a more controlled way.
New England IPAs: Also known as hazy IPAs, these IPAs have a softer bitter taste compared to West Coast IPAs. They are juicy and fruity, often with notes of tropical fruits such as mango and pineapple. The smoke in beer comes from certain yeast strains and the use of jump drying techniques. Trillium Brewing Company’s ipa is highly regarded. The New England ipa is a great way for beginners to get used to the hop flavor while also enjoying a more approachable fruity flavor.
Stout – black and cream of choice
Stout is a black beer that can provide a rich and creamy experience. While some stouts can be very strong and heavy, there are also beginner friendly varieties.
Milk stouts: Milk stouts are made with lactose added, which gives them a creamy and slightly sweet taste. They have a lower level of bitterness compared to some other stout beers. Guinness Foreign Extra Stout is a famous example. The creamy texture, chocolate and coffee flavors make it a delicious and comfortable beer. It’s perfect for sipping and can be paired with desserts like chocolate cake or ice cream.
Oatmeal Stout: Thanks to the addition of oats, oatmeal stout has a smooth and silky texture. They have a slightly bitter and nutty taste. Samuel Smith’s Oatmeal Stout is a popular choice. Oats also give the beer a little more body, making it a satisfying drink. Oatmeal stout is usually enjoyed on cool nights and can be paired with hearty stews or roasts.
See Also: How Many Beers Equal a Shot of Vodka?
Fruit Beer – Sweet and approachable introduction
Fruit beer is a great way to introduce beer to beginners in the beer world, especially those with a sweet tooth.
Raspberry beers: These beers have a distinctive raspberry flavor that ranges from light to strong and vibrant flavors. Lindemans Framboise is a famous raspberry beer. The sweetness of the raspberry masks the bitterness of the beer, making it a very easy choice to drink. It can be refrigerated and is a great choice for summer or dessert beers.
Cider beers: Combining the flavors of beer and cider, these beers have a crisp apple flavor and a slight carbonation. Angry Orchard’s Hard Cider Beer is a popular example. They are not overly complex and have a refreshing and slightly sweet taste. Apple beer is usually enjoyed in the fall and can be served with cheese platters or apple desserts.
Conclusion
For starters, there is no one “best” beer because everyone’s taste preferences are different. However, by exploring the different beer styles described above, beginners can begin to understand their own taste preferences and gradually expand their beer drinking horizons. Whether it’s a light and refreshing lager, a fruity wheat beer, a complex and approachable Belgian ale, a lighter hop ipa, a rich and creamy stout, or a sweet and easy to drink fruit beer, there is a beer to suit every beginner’s taste. Trying different beers and pairing them with different foods can also enhance the overall beer drinking experience. So don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try a new beer. Here’s to the start of a wonderful beer journey!
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