Mastering Craft Beer: The Art of Tasting Beer Like a Pro

How to Describe Beer Like a Pro

The craft beer scene has exploded into a vibrant landscape, offering an astounding variety of flavors. From the bold bitterness of West Coast IPAs to the tropical and citrusy explosion of Hazy IPAs, the choices are spectacular.

However, with such a wide array of options, it’s crucial to know how to describe beer effectively. This skill not only enhances your personal enjoyment but also enriches your conversations with fellow beer lovers. Being adept at articulating the nuances of your pint allows you to share experiences, recommendations, and critiques more effectively.

So, grab a beer, and let’s embark on this flavorful adventure, one sip at a time!

Key Takeaways

• Identifying and articulating a beer’s appearance, aroma, mouthfeel, and taste is fundamental to understanding its complexity.
• Relating beer flavors and aromas to familiar experiences can significantly expand your beer-tasting vocabulary.

The Basics of Beer Tasting

Beer tasting is a journey where every detail counts. Before the beer even touches your lips, the adventure begins with its appearance and aroma. Understanding these elements is key to appreciating the craft beer in front of you.

Appearance

Appearance is where the story starts. A beer’s appearance can reveal much about its style and quality. From the thick white head of a freshly poured pilsner to the dense, almost opaque darkness of a stout, each visual cue hints at the flavors waiting to be discovered.

Aroma

Aroma takes the experience deeper. Before taking a sip, a deep inhale can uncover layers of beer vocabulary, from the citrusy punch of American hops to the subtle, banana-like sweetness suggested by certain yeasts.

Mouthfeel

Mouthfeel is about how the beer feels in your mouth, a precursor to taste that shouldn’t be overlooked. It ranges from the light carbonation and crispness of a classic lager to the velvety, creamy texture of a stout with low carbonation.

Describing Beer Like a Brewer

A craft brewer looking at and tasting his beer.

For those looking to refine their beer description skills, the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) guidelines offer a structured and comprehensive approach. It’s a globally recognized program that sets the standard for evaluating and describing beer, helping both brewers and enthusiasts articulate the complexities of their brews with precision and clarity.

Appearance

The BJCP emphasizes visual evaluation. Note the beer’s color, the behavior and quality of its head, and its clarity. These visual cues are the first hints of the beer’s style and craftsmanship.

Aroma

Shift focus to the symphony of scents. Identify the source of aromas—be it the malt, hops, or the unique characters introduced by fermentation. Pinpointing these scents is akin to deciphering the beer’s DNA.

Mouthfeel

The texture, or mouthfeel, examines the beer’s body and carbonation level, detecting nuances from creamy to astringent textures. This analysis lays the groundwork for taste exploration.

Overall Impression

Finally, assess the beer’s balance and harmony. Reflect on how the elements interplay, crafting a memorable or sometimes challenging drinking experience.

Flavor and Aroma Descriptors

When you enter the beer world, your senses embark on an adventure through a kaleidoscope of flavors and aromas. Understanding how to describe beer—its taste, smell, and the lingering notes it leaves behind—can transform a simple drink into an immersive experience.

Describing Malt Flavors

Malts provide the foundation of beer’s flavor profile. From the light, crisp sweetness of a pilsner to the deep, rich complexity of darker beers, describing malt flavors starts with recognizing a range of descriptors:

• Biscuity/Bready: Think of freshly baked bread or the crisp, toasted edges of a biscuit.
• Caramelly: Captures the sweet, rich essence of caramel, from light burnt cream to deep molasses.
• Toffee-like: Offers a buttery, sweet complexity reminiscent of toffee candy.
• Roasted Malts: Evoke coffee and dark chocolate, with a range from mild to intense bitterness.

Describing Hop Flavors

Hops

Hops infuse beer with aromas and flavors, balancing the sweetness of the malt:

• Citrusy: Notes of lemon, orange, or grapefruit.
• Spicy: Warmth and kick of spices like black pepper or clove.
• Floral: Delicate aromas similar to a blooming garden.
• Piney/Resinous: Fresh scent of pine needles or aromatic resin.
• Earthy: Aromas reminiscent of a newly mown lawn or rich forest floor.

Fermentation: The Wildcard of Flavors

Fermentation introduces unique flavors thanks to yeast:

• Fresh-baked Bread: Highlights yeast’s fundamental role.
• Fruity Esters: Flavors like apple, pear, and banana.
• Spicy Phenols: Clove-like warmth or peppery zest.
• Wild Yeast Characters: Flavors like barnyard or horse blanket, indicative of wild or sour beers.
• Warm Ethanol: The sensation of alcohol warmth, often found in stronger beers.

Conditioning and Body in Beer Descriptors

Understanding conditioning and body is key to appreciating beer’s overall profile.

Conditioning

Conditioning, related to carbonation, imparts beer with its sparkle and fizz:

• Effervescent: Lively and vibrant carbonation.
• Soft: Gentle carbonation smoothing out the drinking experience.
• Prickly: Sharp carbonation enhancing bitterness and aroma.
• Flat: Minimal to no carbonation, often a flaw unless stylistically appropriate.

Body

The body of a beer refers to its weight and fullness on the palate:

• Light: Easy and refreshing, often highly drinkable.
• Medium: Balanced and more substantial.
• Full: Rich and dense, carrying intense flavors.
• Watery: Lacking in substance and depth.

Sensory Exercises for Enhancing Beer Descriptions

Home brewing is a wonderful way to broaden your beer tasting knowledge.

Mastering beer description is a skill that improves with practice and exposure.

Broaden Your Beer Horizons

Taste a wide array of beers to enhance your descriptive skills. Explore new styles beyond your go-to favorites.

Focus Tastings

Organize tastings focused on a single aspect of beer, such as hop flavor or malt complexity.

Compare and Contrast

Select two beers that differ in one key aspect and taste them side by side.

Keep a Beer Journal

Document your tasting experiences, noting flavors, aromas, carbonation, and body. This record will become a valuable resource over time.

Sip, Describe, Explore: Your Next Adventure Awaits

Ready to put your newfound beer description skills to the test? Begin with ours. Each New Trail Brewing Co. beer is a homage to the wild, untamed beauty of the outdoors, designed to be the perfect companion on any adventure.

Visit our tasting room or take our beers with you. Whether you’re scaling a peak, winding down a trail, or just enjoying the sunset, our beers are crafted to enhance every moment.

Discover the beer that speaks to your spirit of adventure. Here’s to finding new paths and the ideal beers to journey with you. Raise a glass to your next adventure with New Trail Brewing!

For any questions you may have, get in touch with us!

Frequently Asked Questions

How would you describe the taste of beer?

The taste of beer can range widely, from the bold bitterness of West Coast IPAs to the sweet, malty flavors of ambers and the tartness of sours. It’s a complex blend of hops, malt, yeast, and additional flavors like citrus or spice, depending on the beer style.

How do you write a good beer description?

A good beer description captures the appearance, aroma, taste, and mouthfeel of the beer. Use vivid, specific language that evokes familiar tastes and smells, and mention the beer style and any unique ingredients or brewing techniques.

What describes beer?

Beer is described by its style (IPA, stout, lager, etc.), flavor profile (bitter, sweet, sour, etc.), aroma (citrusy, floral, earthy, etc.), appearance (color, clarity, foam), and mouthfeel (light, medium, full-bodied). These elements combine to give each beer its unique character.

How do you describe the aroma of beer?

The aroma of beer can include a wide range of scents, from hop-derived notes like pine, citrus, and floral to malt-driven aromas like bread, caramel, and chocolate, as well as yeast-contributed fragrances such as banana, clove, or barnyard. Describing beer aroma involves identifying these specific scents.

Recommended Resources for Craft Beer Enthusiasts

To enhance your journey into the world of craft beer, we’ve compiled a list of essential resources that offer valuable information, tips, and community support. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just starting, these links will help deepen your understanding and appreciation of craft beer.

Beer Advocate

A comprehensive resource for beer reviews, ratings, and community discussions.

• Beer Advocate

Brewers Association

Offers a wealth of information on craft beer, brewing techniques, and industry news.

• Brewers Association

BJCP (Beer Judge Certification Program)

Provides guidelines and resources for beer judging and description.

• BJCP

CraftBeer.com

A site by the Brewers Association, featuring articles, guides, and resources on craft beer.

• CraftBeer.com

American Homebrewers Association

Offers resources and tips for homebrewing and beer appreciation.

• American Homebrewers Association

Untappd

A social platform for discovering and sharing beer reviews and ratings.

• Untappd

The Brewing Network

A resource for podcasts, videos, and articles on brewing and beer tasting.

• The Brewing Network

Zymurgy Magazine

A publication by the American Homebrewers Association with in-depth articles on brewing and beer tasting.

• Zymurgy Magazine

By exploring these resources, you’ll find yourself well-equipped to delve deeper into the fascinating world of craft beer, enhancing both your knowledge and your tasting experience. Cheers to your continued adventures in craft beer!

People having fun drinking at their local brewery (stock photo)

Conclusion

Diving into the world of craft beer is more than just a hobby; it’s an enriching journey that engages all your senses. By honing your ability to describe beer, you open up a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into every pint. This skill not only enhances your personal enjoyment but also allows you to communicate your experiences more effectively with fellow beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, mastering the art of beer tasting is a rewarding endeavor.

Remember, the beauty of craft beer lies in its diversity and complexity. Each beer tells a story through its appearance, aroma, mouthfeel, and taste. By taking the time to observe and articulate these elements, you gain a greater understanding of what makes each brew unique. This deeper connection transforms each sip into an adventure, making every tasting session a memorable experience.

Furthermore, expanding your beer vocabulary by relating flavors and aromas to familiar experiences enriches your sensory lexicon. This practice not only sharpens your descriptive abilities but also fosters a deeper connection with the beers you enjoy. Keeping a beer journal, participating in focus tastings, and comparing different brews side by side are practical steps that can significantly enhance your tasting skills and broaden your appreciation for the craft.

As you continue your exploration, remember that the journey of beer tasting is ever-evolving. There’s always something new to discover, whether it’s a rare hop variety, an innovative brewing technique, or a unique flavor profile. Embrace this adventure with an open mind and a keen palate, and let each beer you encounter deepen your passion for the craft. Cheers to your ongoing journey in the vibrant world of craft beer!

More Links and Information

• Craft Beer Hot Toddies
• Raising the Stakes: Gambling and Alcohol Correlation
• Top Popular Beer Brands
• Embark on a Culinary Adventure: Cooking and Craft Beer
• Philosophy and Craft Beer: A Confluence of Thought and Taste
• Craft Beer Meets Keto
• Unraveling the Brews: The Distinctive Worlds of Lager and Bock
• What is Bock Beer? Exploring the Bock Beer Style: A Journey from Einbeck to Munich
• What is Lager Beer? Exploring the World’s Most Popular Beer Style
• Information on Milko Pours
• The Rise of Craft Lagers in Pennsylvania Brewing
• The Craft Beer Conundrum: Navigating the Troubled Waters of the Craft Beer Industry

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Just before we crack on, I would like to set the scene a little. The beer that I am about to write a review for is the better part of three years old. Because of that, I am going to elaborate more than normal as this is decidedly not an IPA and as such, deserves a little more time and effort spent waxing philosophic. You’ll want to strap in.

The Beer

Beer: B-52 Belgian Dubbel (Bottle-Conditioned, 2017)
Brewery: Cox Brewing Company (CBC)
Style: Belgian Dubbel
ABV: 7.7%
IBU: 10
Untappd Description: A smoked Belgian Dubbel, bottle conditioned one year before release and aged with raisins.
Enjoy In: Tulip, Snifter
Enjoy At: 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit or 30,000ft

The Review

It’s 2017 and a friend of mine has asked me to join him and his father at a small brewery in Rheems, PA. Back then I had never heard of Cox Brewing Company, much less tried any of their beer. However, it’s local brewery and I’m more than willing to check a new place out. We pull into an industrial and farm looking part of town and up to what appeared to be a hole in the wall. The kind of place that only those that were “in-the-know” frequented. And there we were, walking into a crowded and cramped garage that was abuzz with conversation. The whole time I was wondering just how good the beer was, but after the first sip, all doubt fled through that same garage door and I began enjoying myself. Spent a few moments scanning the chalkboard menu and spotted something very interesting. I was going to choose by name, and then I noticed the style. WOAH! “Dubbel” Now there’s something you don’t find very often. While being very happy to see the style, I have to admit I was still a bit of a sceptic. My personal experience with US brewed Belgian styles has been a bit spotty at best. Not many breweries seem to be able to replicate the unique taste found in Belgian beers. So naturally, I did what any beer nerd would do: I ordered a pint. I remember being very glad I was sitting down as much fresher versions of the flavors I’ll depict later washed over me. I enjoyed it so much that I vowed then and there that I would be back to buy two bottles, because only a fool would buy one. I returned a week later, making good on my promise. One of those bottles was had two years ago, and thought it unlikely that it would get any better.

Fast forward those two years and I finally popped the cork on the last bottle that had been sleeping in my cellar ever since. It doesn’t feel like it’s been three years, but with the way 2020 has gone, time is a mere construct, and a fickle one to be sure. Regardless, after carefully coaxing the cage and cork from the glass bottle, the sound of bubbles frothing and bursting echoed forth from the long neck to the tune of a Geiger counter. The effects of the beer contained within wasn’t quite so nuclear, though it will blow away the day’s stress or the frigid temperatures outside. This is a sipping beer in much the way that relaxation and a comfortable lounging chair are the quintessential furnishings of an in home get-a-way. The bottle reads 7.7% but with the way it drinks, you’d swear it was hovering just above the mid 5% range. Either way this beer doesn’t wash down the throat like either of those as it slips easily beyond the tongue and tonsils (if you still have them), down the esophagus and into a waiting stomach. Tickling your nose isn’t the sensation of bubbles popping but the rich, almost candied essence of raisins toiling and rising with a very mild and light smoke. And now to look at the gentle fluid now occupying space in your vessel of choice. A gorgeous, deep ruby red hue briefly accompanied by a coarse, thin, light brown head that evaporates shortly after being poured. Open the hatch, over the gums, and bathe your tongue in liquid bliss, as the taste buds pull out sweet notes of the raisins your nose sniffed out, laced with a subtle, yet comfortable smokiness. The concept might sound a little weird at first, but I assure that this combination not only works, it’s downright delicious. For having such heavy flavors and notes, this is a beer that disappears from your glass and you’re left wondering where it all went and why it’s all gone. Don’t stand up. Allow me to repeat myself a little louder: DO. NOT. STAND. UP. Not only will you likely stumble if you’ve downed the bottle yourself (which I may or may not have done in this case), but you’ll ruin the cozy, warm feeling you’ve likely built up while reclining in your favor chair. Allow the rich flavor to linger and envelope you as you sink deeper into that recliner. Relax and let your mind wander. Oh for that last sorrowful dram of sweet release, how does it linger. A slow flavor evolution that ends with hints of milk chocolate. Odd? Yes, but given that raisins appear in the flavor profile, chocolate only bolsters the thickness of this flavor. This was well worth the wait, so perhaps I should be happy there was snow as I would have left this one to age even further. Prost!

My Untappd Score: ****-1/4
Global Rating: 4.21/5 (as of 12/17/2020)

PROST!

J.Doncevic

If you thought The Beer Thrillers were done with the Mellow Mink content, you’re wrong. At the end of our visit on January 2nd, Matt cracked open a bottle of this for the three of us to share and devour, and savor, and savor and devour we did!

I think the picture above is pretty good, but even still it doesn’t do the beer justice for how aesthetically pleasing it looks. Let alone how tasty it is.

While getting to sit down with Matt and Josh and discussing the barrel aging and bottling that Mellow Mink Brewing does. Matt here is Dr. Lambic, Mr. Matt Miller, Doctorate, head brewer, bottler, part-owner, and genius of Mellow Mink Brewing in Mechanicsburg PA. If there is one thing this man knows (and there is plenty, don’t worry) its sour beer. He knows more about the various yeasts and strains and “lactobacilus” and “saccharomyces” then I know things in general – in total. So it was a complete treat to get to sit down with him, enjoy one of his perfected creations, and listen to him talk about how it was made, why it was made, why this or that ingredient was used, how the aging was done, why this barrel or that, etc, etc. All the while getting to sip on this exquisite drink.

So with enough of an adieu (since I wrote all that above, I can’t say with no further adieu, because I did give plenty of adieu), let’s break down this gorgeous beer:

Beer: Scarlet Sunrise – Blackberry and Blueberry
Brewery: Mellow Mink Brewing
Style: Sour – Fruited
ABV: 6.8%
IBU: 4
Untappd Write-Up: A blend of sour red ales aged for 12 months in Cabernet Sauvignon barrels refermented on Blackberries and Blueberries. Naturally carbonated and conditioned in the bottle.
Notes: Bottle Conditioned, Saccharomyces, Brettanomyces, Lactobacilius

So after getting to tour the facility there at Mellow Mink, Matt had us sample some untouched barrel projects, and then we went to the finished product. This made for a fantastic cap to the night.

Appearance is beautiful, rosy red, effervescent, glowing, sour fruited look alike, but richer, deeper, more full bodied look. You can tell it was aged, you can tell it has a ‘wine’ backbone to it due to the barrel aging, and you can tell it was conditioned for a while. You can see that this is not merely a regular fruited sour, but one that has been labored over and loved over. It just glows and looks beautiful straight from the pour. Great carbonation, great appearance.

Aroma from this is everything you want from reading the bottle. Your nose immediately picks up the blackberry, the blueberry, the Cabernet Sauvignon wine barrel, you get the dryness, the muskyness, the earthy undertones, you inhale and get even more dry stone fruit notes, the blackberries and blueberries jumping in again. Just a wealth of fantastic aroma notes assaulting your nostrils in one great blending.

Now, this is definitely not one to gulp, to quaff down, to chug. This is a beautiful sipping beer. Not surprisingly given how it was made and prepared, you drink this like wine. You sift it, you sniff it, you sip it, you sift it, you swirl it, you savor it, you slowly, devour it. You let it roll around on your tongue, you let it slide to the back of your throat and enjoy the taste. You don’t rush this at all. Its dry, complex, and full of wonderful tastes, textures, and its just so well made that you appreciate every last drop of it. You get deep dryness from this, you get earthy notes, musky notes, you get heavy stone fruit, you taste the wine, you get overpowering blackberry, you get slow building blueberry, you get a tartness but not a complete sourness, the tartness going hand in hand with the dryness. It all culminates in a fantastic and delicious beer that fully embodies what Matt is striving to do at Mellow Mink – make fantastic beers. And that he does, in spades twenty times over.

My Untappd Rating: ****.50
Global Untappd Rating: 4.26 (as of 1.25.20)

Started this article yesterday morning (Friday, 1.24.20) but had to leave for work, and immediately after work took my daughter Lily to the Hummelstown Winter Fling. Which was an absolute blast and I might do a quick write-up on that. Tattered Flag, Spring Gate, Howling Henry’s, BrewDog through the Warwick Hotel; were all there as well as the Warwick being open for sales. Ffej was playing drums for the Julia Schreiber band and it was a blast hearing them nail some Rush songs in Neil Pert’s memory.

I’m wrapping this up just in time to go to work, where immediately afterwards I’ll be rushing to Marysville for the second day of the Grand Opening at the Liquid Noise Brewery, with head brewer Brad Moyer. Can’t wait to check out what he’s got going on, his home brewing stuff has been phenomenal. So definitely be on the look out for that write-up soon after.

To read up on the Mellow Mink Visit me and Josh did, you can check that out here. We had an absolute amazing time hanging out with Matt Miller and Cole and recommend everyone check out Mellow Mink Brewing.

Cheers!

-B. Kline