As the name suggests, craft beer is more than just a beverage — it’s a work of careful craftsmanship, brewed with passion and skill by brewers. Wine tasting has been a popular pastime for ages, but recently, craft beer tasting has risen in popularity alongside the interest in artisan brewing itself. Just like drinking wine, craft beer tasting involves more than just sipping if you want to fully appreciate the complexity of the drink.
In this post, we’ll cover some of the basics of craft beer tasting that are helpful whether you’re new to the hobby or are an enthusiast looking to further enhance your tasting experience.
- Appreciate the view. Before you take a sip, take a moment to observe the beer in your glass. Try holding it up to the light to better note the three C’s: clarity, carbonation, and color. Craft beer comes in a huge range of colors, indicating unique styles and ingredients.
- Stop and smell. After noting the appearance of your craft beer, bring the glass to your nose and take a deep sniff. Craft beers are known for their complex aromas, ranging from sweet and floral to spicy and earthy.
- Sip and savor. Start with a small sip, and let it linger in your mouth for a few seconds. Take note of the flavors you can discern and consider how it sits on your tongue. Is it light and crisp? Velvety and smooth? Something else?
- Note the aftertaste. The lingering aftertaste, often called the finish, is a big part of craft beer drinking. Do the flavors linger on your tongue, or are they gone soon after you swallow? Is there a residual sweetness? Bitterness? Surprise new flavors?
- Be adventurous. The best way to develop your palate and expand your appreciation for craft beer is through exploration. There are endless craft brewers out there, each with their own flair and style. Take time to figure out what you consistently enjoy, but don’t be afraid to branch out and try new brews when the opportunity arises.