National Beer Day is the perfect time for beer lovers to sing their favorite brews’ praises and enjoy an extra pour or two. It’s also the ideal day for beer beginners to enter the world of beer for the very first time.
Although this world can seem intimidating from the outside, beer is a more approachable faction of the beverage industry than, say, wine (although you can dive just as deep into the nuances of good Lagers as you can into good Pinot Noirs). In this article, we’ve broken down the basics of beer so you can start enjoying brews with confidence.
The History of Beer
Beer has a rich history that spans millennia. Its origins can be traced back to ancient cultures such as Mesopotamia, where evidence of beer production dates back to around 5,000 BCE.
From there, beer spread throughout the ancient world, becoming an integral part of such cultures as ancient Egypt, where people of all social classes consumed it. During the Middle Ages in Europe, beer production became closely associated with monasteries, with monks playing a significant role in refining brewing techniques. In 1516, Beertourism.com explains, the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law) standardized brewing practices, paving the way for the developing German beer culture.
Later, the Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to the beer industry, enabling mass production and distribution. In the latter half of the 20th century and continuing into the 21st century, the craft beer movement saw the emergence of small, independent breweries focused on producing unique and flavorful beers, challenging the dominance of major brewing companies. Through these various stages, beer has remained a staple beverage that people enjoy worldwide.
Top Types of Beer Worldwide
According to London Drinks Guide, there are over 100 distinct styles of beer worldwide. Beginners should get to know the most popular varieties before venturing into more complex territory. Here are some of the top styles to try first.
1. American Lager
American Lagers are very common; in fact, you’ve probably tried a few varieties yourself! Budweiser, Miller High Life, and Coors are all American Lagers. This type of beer is known for its light, refreshing flavor, thanks to being bottom-fermented with lager yeasts. If you don’t like the bitter notes of hops, an American Lager is an excellent choice for you.
2. International Lager
Very similar to American Lagers, International Lagers are straightforward and thirst-quenching. They boast minimal to no aromas and are also fermented with lager yeasts. Another distinguishing feature is the low alcohol by volume, making these great to sip during the day and in the heat. Some popular examples include Corona Extra and Heineken.
3. American Pale Ale
American Pale Ales are fermented with ale yeast, making the style more “fruity” and “ bready” than the aforementioned varieties. They tend to have more bitterness and feel a bit heavier than Lagers, but that also means the tasting notes are more pronounced. Well-known American Pale Ales include Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and Ballast Point Grunion.
4. India Pale Ale (IPA)
India Pale Ales have seen an astronomical rise in popularity over the past few years. Expect more intense bitterness than with Lagers or Ales—but from there, IPAs can be fruity and tropical, smooth and clean, ultra-bitter and hoppy, and everything in between! Keep your eyes peeled for double and triple IPAs, too. Lagunitas IPA is a great example of a middle-of-the-road and well-regarded India Pale Ale.
5. Stout
Stout is visually striking with its dark color due to the use of roasted malt. You’ll taste notes of coffee and even chocolate in these heavier brews. People love Stout for its creamy mouthfeel, making it a popular choice in colder months (and year-round in Europe). Stouts are a favorite of beer enthusiasts for their complexity and nuance. Try a pour like the Sierra Nevada Stout when you’re getting started.
6. Wheat Beer
Everyone loves a Wheat beer! Wheats are brewed by adding wheat to the grain bill, lending a silky mouthfeel to the final pour. Interestingly, the addition of wheat can have a tropical aroma and even flavor. Golden Road Brewing’s Mango Cart Wheat is a perfect case study for this interesting phenomenon.
Where to Begin
Beer menus can be overwhelming, even for the initiated! Brian Straka, Bar Manager at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden in Nashville, Tennessee, shared a few tips for selecting your first pour. “I think a good place for beginners to start is with Wheat beers,” Straka said. “Witbiers and Hefeweizens are specifically friendly for new beer drinkers. They tend to be sweeter and more palatable. Radlers and Shandys, which are a mixture of a light beer and a citrus soda, are also good styles to try when easing into the beer world.” When in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask restaurant or bar staff for recommendations!
Want to Become a Miller Lite Beernament?(Opens in a new browser tab)
Conclusion
This National Beer Day, take the plunge and try something new! Visit a local joint with a great selection, like The Pharmacy in Nashville, and you can’t go wrong. The more beers you sample, the more confident you will become. Cheers to that!