Craft beer is becoming more and more popular, with people of all ages and walks of life. But what exactly is craft beer? And how does it differ from the beer you might find at your local grocery store? This article will provide a beginner’s guide to understanding craft beer-what it is, the different types, and how to find the perfect one for you.
Craft beer is simply put, a beer that is made by a small, independently owned brewery. These breweries are often referred to as microbreweries or nanobreweries, and they focus on quality over quantity. This means that craft beer is usually fresher and has more flavor than mass-produced beer.
There are many different types of craft beer, but some of the most common are IPA (India Pale Ale), stout, and Porter. IPA is a type of beer that is known for its strong hops flavor, while stout is a dark beer that is usually rich and creamy. Porter is a medium-bodied beer that often has notes of chocolate or coffee.
When it comes to finding the perfect craft beer for you, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider what type of beer you usually like to drink. If you’re a fan of light beers, then you might want to try a wheat beer or a blonde ale. If you prefer something with a little more flavor, then an IPA or a stout might be more up your alley. You can also ask your local bartender or beer store clerk for recommendations.
Once you’ve found a few types of craft beer that you think you might like, it’s time to start tasting! Most craft breweries offer tastings of their beers, so you can try a few before you commit to buying a whole bottle or pint. When you’re tasting, pay attention to the flavors you taste and how the beer feels in your mouth. Is it sweet? Hoppy? Bitter? Smooth? Take note of what you like and don’t like, so you can narrow down your choices even further.