- 4,817
- 1,821
- Joined
- Apr 20, 2005
I have no idea what most of you guys talk about in here means. IPA's, Stouts, etc. I'm lost as hell. I just got into a few beers a few years ago and stick to what's recommended. Blue Moons, Sam Adams Cherry Wheat are the basics that I know and like.
Blue Moon was one if my gateway beers. I started with that, Hoegaarden, Allagash White, and then started trying some amber ales, etc. after a while the bitterness and hoppiness of IPAs (India Pale Ale) didn't bother me as much and I started drinking Harpoon. From there i just started tasting and trying stuff. As for the differences between them all googling it can help you decide what to try next. I found this glossary pretty quickly:
Plan to crack open a cold one for the 4th? You're not alone.
Confused about the different styles of beer? Again, you're not alone. Here's a quick-and-dirty guide that will make for a good conversation starter this weekend.
There are only two categories of beer - Ale and Lager. From there are endless variations. Let's explore some of the more popular styles within each category:
Lager
Made with bottom-fermenting yeasts at cold temperatures.
Pale Lagers are what many Americans think of as "beer", i.e. Miller and Bud. Also called "American Adjunct Lager". If this is the only beer you drink, it's time to branch out!
Pilsner has a hoppier taste than pale lagers, and is traditionally from the Czech Republic.
Bock is less popular than Pale Lagers or Pils, but deserves more attention. Bocks often have a complex malty flavor with less hoppiness. Amber to dark color, with a rich taste.
Ale
Made with top-fermenting yeasts at warm temperatures. Ales are what most Brits think of as "beer".
Wheat Beer is my favorite, along with Belgian White. Both styles are made with wheat and are often seasoned by orange and spices.
IPA (India Pale Ale) is a very hoppy and dry beer with medium color. My husband loves IPAs, although they're a bit too hoppy for me.
Porter is a very dark, full bodied brew. They have a very strong malty flavor, with hints of chocolate, caramel, and coffee.
Stout is a subcategory of Porter. Stouts have more alcohol content than Porters, and also have a slightly dryer and more bitter characteristic.