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Navigating the World of Beer: A Beginner’s Guide

Are you new to the world of beer? With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Fear not! This guide will help you navigate the basics of beer selection, so you can confidently order a pint or pick up a six-pack for your next gathering.

The Two Kingdoms of Beer: Lagers and Ales

At its core, beer can be divided into two main categories: lagers and ales. Understanding the differences between these two types will give you a solid foundation for exploring the world of beer.

Lagers are fermented at colder temperatures (45-55°F) using Saccharomyces pastorianus yeast, resulting in a crisp, clean taste. Think Budweiser and Miller.

Ales, on the other hand, are fermented at warmer temperatures (60-75°F) using Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast, giving them a fuller, sweeter flavor profile. New Belgium’s Fat Tire Amber Ale is a great example.

India Pale Ales (IPAs): A Bitter Delight

IPAs are a type of ale characterized by their bold, hoppy flavor and higher-than-average ABV (usually around 7%). This style originated in the 1800s, when British brewers created a beer that could withstand the long journey to India.

Today, IPAs come in two main styles: West Coast and New England. West Coast IPAs are bright, highly carbonated, and extremely hoppy, while New England IPAs are less bitter, often fruit-forward, and unfiltered.

Wheat Beers: Light, Refreshing, and Citrusy

Wheat beers are a type of ale brewed mostly or entirely from wheat. They’re typically hazy, light, and citrusy, with a fuller mouthfeel. Allagash White and Weihnstephaner’s hefeweizen are excellent examples.

Saisons: The Original Craft Beer

Saisons, or farmhouse ales, were originally brewed in the fall for Belgian farm workers to enjoy during the warm summer months. These beers are light, refreshing, and often incorporate local ingredients. Two Roads’ Worker’s Comp Farmhouse Ale is a modern classic.

Pilsners: Crisp, Balanced, and Refreshing

Pilsners are pale lagers known for their ultra-crispness. Originating in the Czech Republic, pilsners are made with light-colored malt and a bottom-fermenting yeast, resulting in a beautifully balanced beer. Foundation Brewing’s Josef Pils and Victory’s Prima Pils are excellent examples.

Porters and Stouts: Dark, Rich, and Complex

Porters and stouts are both dark ales brewed from barley. Porters are lighter, with malty sweetness and a hint of hops, while stouts are more robust, often with underlying coffee notes. Guinness’s Irish Stout is a world-renowned example.

Sours: Tart, Fruity, and Adventurous

Sour beers get their characteristic tartness from wild yeast strains or bacteria intentionally introduced during fermentation. While some sour beers incorporate fruits for added flavor, traditional styles like the German gose are fruit-free.

Session Beers: Low ABV, High Flavor

Session beers are any style of beer with less than 5% ABV, making them perfect for all-day drinking events or extended sessions. Notch Brewery produces a variety of session beers with unique flavors and low alcohol content.

What Does “Craft Beer” Mean?

The term “craft beer” refers to beers produced by smaller, often independently owned breweries that prioritize local ingredients, community ties, and intentional production methods. “Craft” doesn’t imply a specific style, but rather a commitment to quality and uniqueness. Jack’s Abby and Night Shift Brewing are two examples of craft breweries that offer a range of styles and flavors.