IPAs - The Beer Thrillers

How Much Sugar Is in IPA Beer? A Full Comparison with Other Beer Types

B. Kline — Sat, 12 Oct 2024 03:15:29 +0000

How Much Sugar Is in IPA Beer? A Full Comparison with Other Beer Types

Ever wondered how much sugar is in your favorite IPA compared to other beers? Whether you’re keeping an eye on your carb intake or just curious about what makes each beer unique, understanding sugar content can shed light on the flavors and characteristics of your brew. In this article, we’ll break down the sugar content in IPA beers and compare it with regular, light, and non-alcoholic beers.

Overlook Hazy IPA by New Trail Brewing (photo courtesy of New Trail Brewing Company’s Instagram account)

Following up on our article yesterday – How Much Sugar is in an IPA? A Deep Dive into the Sugar Content of India Pale Ales – today we present our next article in that series: How Much Sugar Is in IPA Beer? A Full Comparison with Other Beer Types. This article will take a much deeper dive into how much sugar is in IPAs vs other beers, specifically light beers and light lagers that most people are used to (Coors Lite, Miller Lite, Budweiser, Bud Lite, etc.). Enjoy!

Key Takeaways: Comparing Sugar Levels in Beer

IPA beers typically contain less than 1 gram of residual sugar per 12-ounce serving due to an extensive fermentation process.
Regular and light beers usually range from 1-6 grams of sugar per 12 ounces, with light beers generally being lower in sugar.
Non-alcoholic beers can contain significantly more sugar—often between 10-15 grams per 12-ounce serving—due to minimal fermentation.

What Contributes to Sugar in Beer?

Beer starts with fermentable sugars from malted grains like barley and wheat. These sugars are broken down during the brewing process and consumed by yeast, which converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide. However, not all sugars are fermented, leaving behind residual sugars that affect the beer’s sweetness and mouthfeel.

Understanding the sugar content in beer is crucial because it influences both the flavor and alcohol content. More sugar typically means a fuller-bodied beer with higher alcohol content, while less sugar results in a drier, crisper finish.

Sugar Content in IPA Beer: Why It’s Low

A bowl of sugar

IPAs (India Pale Ales) are known for their hop-forward flavors and low sugar content. During brewing, malted barley provides fermentable sugars, while hops add bitterness and aroma. The brewing process converts most sugars into alcohol, leaving less than 1 gram of residual sugar per 12-ounce serving in typical IPAs.

To carbonate IPA beers, brewers either add a small amount of priming sugar before bottling or use force carbonation in cans. In both cases, the extra sugar is minimal and doesn’t significantly impact the beer’s sugar content.

How Different IPA Styles Compare in Sugar Content

IPAs come in several variations, each with different sugar levels:

Regular IPAs: Known for their moderate alcohol content and balanced flavors, regular IPAs generally have less than 1 gram of residual sugar per 12-ounce serving.
Double IPAs (DIPAs): These boast higher alcohol content and start with more fermentable sugars. While most sugars are converted during fermentation, double IPAs often have slightly higher residual sugar levels, ranging from 2-3 grams per serving.
Session IPAs: With lower alcohol content, session IPAs typically have very low sugar content (less than 1 gram per serving), offering a lighter, crisper drinking experience.

IPA vs. Other Beers: How Do They Compare?

IPA vs. Regular Beer

Regular beers tend to have a more balanced malt and hop profile, often leaving 2-6 grams of residual sugar per 12-ounce serving, depending on the style. In contrast, IPAs ferment more sugars, resulting in less than 1 gram of sugar per serving. This makes IPAs a slightly better choice for those watching their sugar intake.

IPA vs. Light Beer

Light beers are brewed to be lower in calories and sugars, often containing less than 1 gram of sugar per 12-ounce serving. They achieve this through the use of adjuncts like rice or corn, which provide fermentable sugars without leaving much residual sugar behind.

While light beers may have a similar sugar profile to IPAs, IPAs generally offer more robust flavors due to their higher hop content and more complex malt base.

IPA vs. Non-Alcoholic Beer

Non-alcoholic beers contain significantly more sugar than IPAs, with levels often ranging between 10-15 grams per 12-ounce serving. Because non-alcoholic beers undergo minimal fermentation, fewer sugars are converted into alcohol, leading to higher residual sugar content.

For those monitoring their sugar intake, non-alcoholic beers may not be the best choice, especially when compared to the relatively low sugar levels found in IPAs.

Why Some Commercial Beers Use Corn Syrup

Mass-produced beers from large global brands often use corn syrup as a fermentable sugar to lower costs and speed up brewing. While corn syrup can increase the sugar content, this practice is almost nonexistent in craft IPAs, which focus on traditional brewing methods using malted barley for sugar sources. As a result, craft IPAs tend to have more complex flavors and lower sugar content compared to commercial lagers that may rely on corn syrup.

The Relationship Between Sugar and Alcohol in Beer

There’s a direct relationship between sugar and alcohol in beer: More sugar leads to more alcohol. As yeast consumes sugars during fermentation, the resulting alcohol content increases while residual sugars decrease. However, higher-alcohol beers, like double IPAs, may still contain a slight amount of residual sugar to balance the intense bitterness of hops.

Keep in mind that higher alcohol content means more calories, so while IPAs might be lower in sugar, they can still pack a calorie punch.

FAQs About Sugar in IPA Beer

Does IPA beer have sugar?

Yes, but most of the sugar in IPA beer is converted into alcohol during fermentation. The residual sugar content is typically less than 1 gram per 12-ounce serving.

How much sugar is in a 12 oz IPA?

A typical 12-ounce IPA contains less than 1 gram of residual sugar, thanks to the fermentation process that consumes most of the sugars.

Is IPA healthier than regular beer?

In terms of sugar content, IPAs usually have less sugar than regular beers. However, IPAs often contain more alcohol and calories, so balance and moderation are important.

Is there a lot of sugar in beer?

Sugar content in beer varies widely by style. Light beers and IPAs generally have low sugar levels (less than 1 gram per serving), while non-alcoholic beers can contain 10-15 grams of sugar per serving.

Final Thoughts: Sugar in IPA Beer and Beyond

When it comes to sugar content, IPAs offer a lower-sugar option compared to many regular and non-alcoholic beers, making them a good choice for those who enjoy bold flavors but want to avoid excess sugar. Whether you prefer a classic IPA, a hop-heavy DIPA, or a session IPA for easy drinking, understanding the sugar content helps you make informed choices. Cheers to discovering what’s inside your favorite brew!

How much Sugar is in IPAs?

Key Takeaways: How IPA Beer Stacks Up in Sugar Content

IPAs have less than 1 gram of sugar per serving.
Non-alcoholic beers can contain 10-15 grams of sugar.
Light beers generally have less than 1 gram of sugar, but with fewer complex flavors than IPAs.

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How Much Sugar is in IPA? A Deep Dive into the Sugar Content of India Pale Ales

B. Kline — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 13:37:59 +0000

How Much Sugar is in IPA? A Deep Dive into the Sugar Content of India Pale Ales

An IPA with hops at a craft brewery’s bar

India Pale Ales (IPAs) are beloved for their bold flavors and adventurous spirit, but many beer drinkers wonder: how much sugar is in an IPA? Whether you’re health-conscious or just curious, understanding the sugar content in your favorite IPA can be eye-opening. Spoiler alert—it’s lower than you might think!

Key Takeaways:

IPAs are low in sugar due to the fermentation process where yeast converts most sugars into alcohol.
Original Gravity (OG) and Final Gravity (FG) are essential in understanding how much sugar remains in the final product.
Despite the sugar-rich wort, IPAs end up with very low residual sugar while maintaining bold, complex flavors.

What is the Sugar Content in IPA Beer?

For anyone counting calories or carbs, knowing the sugar content in your IPA matters. The good news is that most IPAs have very little sugar left by the time they reach your glass. But let’s break down why that is and how it happens.

The Fermentation Process Explained

The brewing process of IPAs starts with four main ingredients: malted grains (like barley), hops, water, and yeast. After malting and mashing the grains, a sugar-rich liquid called wort is created. However, during fermentation, yeast consumes most of these sugars and converts them into alcohol and carbon dioxide.

This is why, despite starting with a sugar-rich wort, the final sugar content in an IPA is minimal. Yeast works hard to convert the majority of the sugars into alcohol, leaving behind very little residual sugar.

Original Gravity (OG) vs. Final Gravity (FG)

Two key measurements in brewing tell us a lot about sugar: Original Gravity (OG) and Final Gravity (FG). OG measures the sugar content before fermentation, and FG measures it after fermentation. The larger the difference between these two, the more sugar was converted into alcohol, meaning lower residual sugar in the beer.

The Types of Sugars in IPAs and How They Differ from Other Beers

Wort going through the brewing process

The sugars in beer primarily come from malt, but not all sugars behave the same way during brewing. The main sugar, maltose, is highly fermentable, which is why most of it gets converted into alcohol. Other sugars, like oligosaccharides, are less fermentable, contributing to the beer’s mouthfeel and sweetness.

While IPAs are known for their hop-forward character, they do have slightly more residual sugars than lighter beers, thanks to the brewing process. However, even double IPAs, which start with a higher sugar content, end up with low residual sugar due to efficient fermentation.

Comparing Sugar Content in IPAs vs. Regular and Light Beers

So how do IPAs stack up against other types of beers? Here’s a breakdown:

Regular Beers: Typically contain moderate amounts of residual sugar, around 10-12 grams of carbs, but with very little sugar remaining after fermentation.
Light Beers: Often crafted to be low in both calories and carbs, light beers have as little as 2-5 grams of carbs, with very low sugar content.
IPAs and Double IPAs: Due to their robust hop and malt profiles, IPAs can have around 15-20 grams of carbs per serving. However, the sugar content remains low, generally less than 1 gram of residual sugar per 12-ounce serving.

Why Some Commercial Beers Have More Sugar

It’s important to note that mass-produced beers sometimes use corn syrup as a fermentable sugar to speed up the brewing process and cut costs. This can increase the sugar content, but it’s a practice more common in commercial brands than craft beers like IPAs, which typically rely on traditional ingredients like malted barley.

FAQs About Sugar in IPA Beer

Does IPA Beer Contain Sugar?

Yes, IPA contains sugar, but most of it is consumed by yeast during fermentation, leaving very little residual sugar in the final beer.

How Many Grams of Sugar Are in a 12 oz IPA?

A typical 12 oz IPA contains less than 1 gram of residual sugar due to the fermentation process.

Is IPA a Healthier Beer Option?

IPAs can be considered healthier in terms of sugar content compared to many other alcoholic beverages. However, they may be higher in calories and alcohol content.

What Beer Has the Lowest Sugar Content?

Light beers tend to have the lowest sugar content, with some containing as little as 0 grams of sugar per serving.

Conclusion: IPAs Offer Bold Flavor, Not Sugar

While IPAs may pack a punch in terms of flavor and hops, they don’t pack a sugary punch. The brewing process, particularly fermentation, ensures that most of the sugars in IPA are converted to alcohol. This makes IPAs a low-sugar beer option, especially when compared to mass-produced commercial beers.

The next time you enjoy a pint, you can do so with the knowledge that your IPA isn’t loaded with sugar—just bold, delicious flavors.

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Tavour: Your Guide to Craft Beer Delivered Right to Your Door

B. Kline — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 19:15:45 +0000

Tavour: Your Guide to Craft Beer Delivered Right to Your Door

Tavour – Craft beer delivered to your doorstep. (photo courtesy of Tavour)

The craft beer scene is constantly evolving, and finding the latest, most exclusive brews can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. That’s where Tavour comes in. If you’re a fan of rare, small-batch craft beer from all corners of the U.S., Tavour offers a solution that brings the hunt to your doorstep. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or just starting your craft beer journey, Tavour is a must-know platform for discovering beers you won’t find at your local store.

What is Tavour?

Tavour

Tavour is an online craft beer delivery service that specializes in connecting beer lovers with limited-edition, hard-to-find brews from independent breweries across the country. Founded in 2013, Tavour partners with craft breweries—many of which produce small batches that are only available in specific regions. Their mission is simple: to make exceptional craft beer accessible to everyone, no matter where you live.

Tavour is an innovative craft beer delivery service that connects beer enthusiasts with unique and hard-to-find brews from independent breweries across the U.S. Founded in Seattle in 2013, Tavour allows customers to discover small-batch, limited-edition, and specialty beers that may not be available in their local market. The platform curates a wide variety of beers, from IPAs and stouts to sours and barrel-aged options, ensuring there’s something for every taste. Unlike traditional beer subscription boxes, Tavour gives users the freedom to hand-pick the beers they want, offering them the opportunity to explore diverse styles and flavors.

What sets Tavour apart is its emphasis on showcasing lesser-known craft breweries. The service partners with a rotating selection of breweries, giving small, independent beer makers a chance to reach a broader audience. Each beer featured on the app or website comes with detailed descriptions, tasting notes, and insights into the brewery that created it, giving customers a well-rounded understanding of what they’re purchasing. The app is designed to make the selection process easy, with new beers added daily, and users can create their own custom boxes by adding beers to their cart over time, only paying for shipping when they’re ready to receive their order.

Tavour is also highly regarded for its flexibility and transparency. There are no membership fees or monthly commitments—users simply pay for the beers they select. This makes it a popular choice for both casual beer drinkers and dedicated craft beer collectors. Whether someone is looking to try the latest release from a renowned brewery or discover a hidden gem from a small town, Tavour provides a seamless way to access exclusive beers that might otherwise be out of reach. Through its app-based platform, Tavour has created a unique community of beer lovers who can explore, share, and enjoy their passion for craft beer.

How Does Tavour Work?

Tavour operates through its app and website, allowing users to browse a constantly updated selection of unique beers. Here’s how it works:

Sign Up for Free: Create a Tavour account (no subscription required) and get access to a handpicked selection of beers.
Browse the Beers: Every day, Tavour introduces two new beers to their marketplace. You can read detailed descriptions, see brewery information, and even view tasting notes to help make your decision.
Build Your Box: Add as many beers as you want to your “box.” Tavour doesn’t require minimum purchases—just add beers you’re excited to try. Your box ships when you decide, ensuring you get exactly what you want, when you want it.
Pay as You Go: There are no monthly fees or hidden charges—just pay for the beers you select and shipping costs.
Enjoy Your Craft Beer: Once your box is ready, Tavour ships your curated selection right to your door, delivering an unparalleled craft beer experience.

Why Tavour is Perfect for Craft Beer Enthusiasts

Tavour’s main draw is its impressive selection of craft beers from breweries that often fly under the radar. From barrel-aged stouts to hazy IPAs, each beer is carefully curated for quality and uniqueness. Here’s why craft beer lovers should consider Tavour:

Exclusive Access: Many of the beers on Tavour are difficult or impossible to find outside their local markets. If you’re chasing after rare releases, Tavour offers access to breweries that are typically only available regionally.
No Subscriptions: Unlike other services that lock you into monthly beer shipments, Tavour lets you buy only the beers you’re excited about. This flexibility is perfect for those who want control over their beer purchases.
Personalized Experience: Tavour allows users to choose exactly what they want to try. Whether you’re into sours, stouts, or lagers, you can pick and choose to build a box that perfectly matches your taste.
Detailed Beer Descriptions: Each beer on Tavour comes with tasting notes and detailed descriptions, helping users make informed decisions. Whether you’re new to craft beer or a seasoned aficionado, this helps you discover new styles and breweries.

Tavour banner logo

The Best Breweries on Tavour

Tavour has partnered with hundreds of small breweries, bringing you limited-edition beers from all across the country. Some of the most popular breweries featured on Tavour include (quick summary):

Fremont Brewing (Seattle, WA): Known for their rich barrel-aged stouts and flavorful IPAs, Fremont is a must-try for craft beer enthusiasts.
Urban South Brewery (New Orleans, LA): With creative sours and bold IPAs, Urban South has earned a reputation for pushing boundaries.
Great Notion Brewing (Portland, OR): Famous for their hazy IPAs and pastry stouts, Great Notion has developed a cult following.
The Bruery (Placentia, CA): Famous for their experimental ales, sours, and their Black Tuesday stout.
Toppling Goliath (Decorah, IA): Famous for their Pseudo Sue and King Sue beers.

Tavour features a rotating selection of top-tier breweries, giving beer lovers access to some of the best craft beers across the country. While the selection changes frequently, here are five standout breweries you can often find on Tavour, known for their quality, innovation, and cult following (more in-depth look at these five breweries):

1. Fremont Brewing (Seattle, WA)

Specialty: Barrel-aged stouts, IPAs, and bold lagers.
Why They Stand Out: Fremont Brewing is renowned for its deep, rich barrel-aged stouts like the B-Bomb series and Rusty Nail, as well as their vibrant IPAs such as Head Full of Dynomite. Their brews are often sought after by collectors and beer enthusiasts alike.

2. Great Notion Brewing (Portland, OR)

Specialty: Hazy IPAs, pastry stouts, and sours.
Why They Stand Out: Great Notion has built a loyal fan base thanks to its innovative beers that push flavor boundaries. Their hazy IPAs are juicy and fruit-forward, while their pastry stouts are dessert-like, with decadent flavors of chocolate, coffee, and vanilla.

3. The Bruery (Placentia, CA)

Specialty: Barrel-aged beers, sours, and experimental ales.
Why They Stand Out: The Bruery is celebrated for its extensive barrel-aging program and complex beers, including sour ales and high-gravity, barrel-aged stouts. Their Black Tuesday imperial stout and Tart of Darkness sour stout are legendary in the craft beer world.

4. Urban South Brewery (New Orleans, LA)

Specialty: Fruited sours, hazy IPAs, and creative lagers.
Why They Stand Out: Urban South combines the rich brewing heritage of New Orleans with modern, experimental brewing techniques. Their heavily fruited sours and hazy IPAs are eye-catching and packed with bold, tropical flavors, making them fan favorites.

5. Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. (Decorah, IA)

Specialty: IPAs, barrel-aged stouts.
Why They Stand Out: Toppling Goliath is best known for their world-class IPAs like King Sue and Pseudobass, as well as their iconic barrel-aged stouts like Kentucky Brunch Brand Stout (KBBS). These beers consistently rank among the top in the world, drawing high demand whenever they are available on Tavour.

These breweries represent the cutting edge of craft brewing and are frequent partners with Tavour, making it an exciting platform for beer enthusiasts who want to explore the best beers from around the country.

Is Tavour Worth It?

For craft beer lovers, Tavour is a game changer. It offers convenience, variety, and access to some of the best beers in the country. While the shipping costs can add up depending on your location, the chance to try beers that are otherwise unattainable makes it worthwhile for many.

How to Maximize Your Tavour Experience

Check Daily: New beers are added daily, so it’s worth checking the app regularly to snag limited releases before they sell out.
Read Reviews: Tavour features user reviews, helping you get a sense of which beers are worth adding to your box.
Explore New Styles: Use Tavour as a way to explore new beer styles. If you’re typically an IPA drinker, try branching out into sours or saisons.

Final Thoughts

Tavour is a must-have for any craft beer lover who wants to explore unique and hard-to-find brews. With no subscription required and the ability to handpick your favorites, Tavour offers an unmatched level of control over your craft beer experience. Whether you’re hunting for rare brews or simply expanding your palate, Tavour delivers a taste of the craft beer scene from all corners of the country—right to your front door.

If you’re ready to explore a new world of craft beer, give Tavour a try today.

FAQ about Tavour

What types of beers does Tavour offer? Tavour offers a wide variety of craft beers including IPAs, stouts, sours, lagers, and more. Many of the beers are small-batch and limited edition.
Does Tavour offer a subscription service? No, Tavour does not require a subscription. You can select and purchase beers at your own pace.
Where does Tavour deliver? Tavour delivers to most states in the U.S., but availability may vary depending on local laws.

By following these tips and using Tavour to its full potential, you’ll have access to the best the craft beer world has to offer—without ever leaving your home.

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Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

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You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

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Mellow Mink Brewing is Closing

B. Kline — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 22:45:11 +0000

Mellow Mink Brewing’s Closing Announcement

Mellow Mink

This. One. Hurts. Some places, some breweries, just become a part of you and part of your craft beer experience, and world, and enjoyment. As we see more and more breweries closing this year, and the upcoming years, some are going to hurt more than others. Each person is different, and each brewery’s closing will affect people differently; but this one really just hurts. Matt and Cole are such wonderful people, who have done a lot for the beer community, have made a tremendous brewery and bar experience, and have been such wonderful people to talk beer with, this absolutely hurts. Like The Alementary and their closing, Mellow Mink Brewery held a very special place in our hearts here at The Beer Thrillers. We just want to go above and beyond to say thank you to all Matt and Cole and have done for the community.

Mellow Mink Brewing is located at 4830 Carlisle Pike in Hampden Township (4830 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050).

Mellow Mink Brewing is a craft brewery located in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, known for its unique and innovative approach to brewing. Founded by Matt Miller and Cole Taylor, Mellow Mink specializes in producing a wide range of craft beers, with a particular focus on sours and barrel-aged brews. The brewery has gained a reputation for its meticulous brewing process and the use of high-quality ingredients, ensuring each beer offers a distinct and memorable flavor profile.

The brewery’s taproom provides a welcoming and stylish environment for patrons to enjoy their beverages. With a sleek and modern design, the taproom offers a comfortable space for beer enthusiasts to gather and savor Mellow Mink’s diverse selection. In addition to its regular lineup, the brewery frequently releases limited-edition and seasonal beers, keeping the menu fresh and exciting for visitors. The taproom also hosts various events, including beer tastings, food pairings, and community gatherings, enhancing the overall experience.

Josh and Ben hanging out with Matt and Cole at Mellow Mink Brewery (January 2020)

When our blog was still new and baby fresh, Matt invited Josh and I out to their brewery to have a behind the scenes tour and get an intimate look at their operation, their beers and their sours, and we had such a wonderful time hanging out with Matt and Cole and spending hour and hour after hour talking about beer to no end. (See: Brewery Visit – Mellow Mink Brewery) I can’t thank Matt and Cole enough for that experience, as we learned so much from it all, and more importantly – just had a wonderful night.

Mellow Mink Brewing is Closing

As more and more breweries are closing, theres a lot of dynamics at play, and a lot of reasons for why they are closing. There is certainly a ‘bubble bursting’ in the craft beer industry, no matter how much some will tell you otherwise. And there is so many reasons and things that go into what makes a brewery great, or what will keep it standing out, and will keep people going back. The loss of Mellow Mink will be a big blow to the Central PA and the Harrisburg area and Harrisburg adjacent beer area.

Here is their announcement posted to social media:

Mellow Mink Brewing’s Closing Announcement

Today, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the upcoming closure of Mellow Mink Brewing. We have cherished the opportunity to serve our fans and community for the past six years. We are deeply proud of the beers and cocktails that we crafted, and the all-inclusive environment that we fostered. We now plan to wind-down brewing and taproom operations and close permanently by the end of August 2024. We hope you will visit us again before we are gone – we will be releasing several small batch and full-scale blends that are currently in the tanks. Thank you all for your love and support over the years!

Mellow Mink Brewing – Facebook Post

The out pouring of support started immediately right after they made their announcement and posts. The love the community has for them clearly shown, sadly, not enough support was given while they were fully in operation.

But, please everyone, lets go and visit them throughout July, and August, until their last day. Lets show Matt and Cole all the support we can while the doors are open — and afterwards. Let them know how much they are loved by the community. How great their sours are, and how much their stouts, and IPAs, kicked butt as well.

I just want to reiterate how much love we have for Matt and Cole and all the staff at Mellow Mink Brewery, and wish the absolute best for all involved in the future and everything they do. Lets all raise a pint to Matt, Cole, the staff of Mellow Mink, and the brewery itself!

(Join us, Josh, Ben, and Amy, as we will be visiting Mellow Mink, Friday – July 5th, after 6PM.)

For More Information on Mellow Mink Brewery

The following comes via Untappd.

Mellow Mink Brewing is a microbrewery from Mechanicsburg, PA. They have 478 unique beers and over 34,000 ratings, with a global average rating of 3.88 (as of 7.2.24). Their Untappd description reads: “Mellow Mink Brewing is an all inclusive craft brewery and taproom in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. It is our goal to bring the traditions of both old and new world brewing excellence to our home on the west shore of the Susquehanna River. We strive to brew creative and delicious craft beers of the highest quality.”

You can find them at these social media platforms:

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Cheers.

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You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

The Misunderstood Journey from Chilled to Room Temperature: Why Your Craft Beer Is Still A-Okay

B. Kline — Thu, 04 Jan 2024 14:04:53 +0000

The Misunderstood Journey from Chilled to Room Temperature: Why Your Craft Beer Is Still A-Okay

Craft beer being sold in a ‘to go’ store fridge display.

In the ever-evolving world of craft beer, myths and misconceptions can sometimes cloud our judgment and rob us of simple pleasures. One such fallacy is the staunch belief that once a beer leaves the cool sanctuary of the fridge, it must never return under penalty of ruining its intricate flavors. But, dear readers, it’s high time we dispel this myth and embrace the fluidity of our beloved brews’ temperatures. Let’s delve into why transitioning from cold to room temperature—and yes, back again—is perfectly fine for your craft beer.

The Fear of Flavor Loss: A Misguided Concern

The Troegs General Store. Beer sold in the fridge in the back, and beer sold on the floor at room temperature.

The heart of the issue lies in a common misconception: that beer, once warmed, undergoes some irreversible change, leading to a loss of flavor or, worse, spoilage. This belief likely stems from a partial truth—beer does change as it warms up, but not in the way many fear.

Craft beers, especially those rich in complexity and depth, often reveal different facets of their flavor profiles at varying temperatures. A stout, for example, might offer a bold coffee note when chilled, which then gives way to subtle dark chocolate undertones as it warms. This isn’t a degradation of quality; it’s a journey through the sensory experiences that the brewer intended.

As you can see from the image here – Troegs Brewing, like most breweries and most beverage distributions / warehouses – sell their beer both at fridge temperatures as well as room temperatures. All of their beer comes from their back “main cooler” before either going to their sales room floor (for sale at room temperature) or goes to their “small cooler” (the fridge pictured in the back of the image). So this means that at one time all of their beer was cold and chilled to cooler temperatures before being sold at the current room temperature.

Beer itself is created cold and then gets warmed up in transportations to various places as well as for sales. Even the kegs you see in bars and breweries, and used for on site consumption, at some point has likely gone to “room temperature” in their travel from the original brewing location to their bar room destination.

Flash pasteurization is the biggest reason why this isn’t an issue for beer and craft beer.

The biggest issues for craft beer are light (UV rays) as well as time (how old a beer is). This is particularly true with high hoppy content beers (ie. New England IPAs, West Coast IPAs, IPAs in general, pale ales, and other high IBU products). The light is particularly an issue for beers that come in clear (think Corona) or light green (think Heineken or Yuengling) bottles, or if they are stored in direct light where even the dark brown or “near black” bottle glass will still allow some of the light to penetrate.

The Real Culprits: Light and Time

A display of Troegs beer at room temperature in their General Store.

If there are villains in this story, they are not the shifts in temperature but rather exposure to light and the passage of time. Light-struck beer can result in unpleasant skunky flavors, a fate far worse than any temperature fluctuation could cause. Similarly, while craft beers can and do age, there’s a delicate balance. Over time, even in ideal storage conditions, a beer might lose its vibrant hop character or develop off-flavors.

In the intricate ballet of brewing, bottling, and savoring craft beers, two formidable forces—light and time—play pivotal roles, often determining the fate of a brew’s journey from conception to consumption. These elements hold sway over the delicate balance of flavors within each bottle, particularly for styles as celebrated and hop-centric as India Pale Ales (IPAs). Understanding how light and time interact with beer can illuminate why certain IPAs taste vibrant and fresh while others may fall flat, losing the aromatic hop character that is their hallmark.

Light, especially UV light, is a well-known adversary of beer, with the potential to initiate a chemical reaction within hop compounds, leading to the dreaded ‘skunky’ beer phenomenon. This reaction occurs when hops’ bitter compounds break down and recombine with sulfur-containing compounds, producing a chemical very similar to that which gives skunks their distinctive defense spray. The impact of light is most pronounced in beers stored in clear or green glass bottles, as these do less to block harmful UV rays compared to amber glass or cans. For IPAs, which pride themselves on their hop-forward profiles, exposure to light can quickly degrade the nuanced layers of hop aroma and flavor, turning a once-exquisite sensory experience into something unpleasantly reminiscent of our nocturnal, white-striped friends.

Time, while a less aggressive foe than light, is no less significant in its effects on craft beers, and IPAs suffer its passage keenly. Hops, the soul of an IPA, impart their coveted flavors and aromas—citrus, pine, floral, or tropical notes—through oils that are inherently volatile and begin to degrade the moment they’re introduced to the brew. Over time, the vibrant, fresh hop character that defines a freshly brewed IPA gradually diminishes, giving way to a more muted or even muddled beer. The rate of this decline can vary, influenced by factors such as the beer’s storage conditions, the hop varieties used, and the beer’s original hop intensity. Consequently, brewers and enthusiasts alike champion the mantra, “Drink fresh,” particularly for IPAs, to savor the full spectrum of hoppy goodness before time dulls its luster.

In response to these challenges, craft brewers have become increasingly innovative, exploring methods like cold chain distribution, where beers are kept refrigerated from brewery to consumer, and dark packaging, to shield their brews from light. Additionally, many brewers now prominently display packaging dates and encourage retailers and consumers to treat IPAs with the same perishability as fresh produce. These efforts underscore a collective commitment to preserving the integrity of craft beer, ensuring that each IPA can be enjoyed as intended, vibrant and bursting with flavor, regardless of the inevitable dance with light and time.

Proper Storage: The Key to Longevity

Understanding that temperature flexibility isn’t the end of the world doesn’t mean we advocate for carelessness. Proper storage is still crucial for maintaining your beer’s integrity over time. Keeping your beers away from direct light and at a stable temperature—yes, even if that means taking them out of the fridge for a period—is advisable. Extreme temperature fluctuations, especially heat, can accelerate aging and not in a graceful way.

The Taste Test: Trust Your Palate

Ultimately, the proof, as they say, is in the pudding—or, in this case, the pint. Conduct your experiment by sampling a beer at various temperatures. Many craft beer enthusiasts find that allowing a beer to sit for a few minutes out of the fridge enhances its character, making for a more enjoyable drinking experience. Trust your taste buds; they’re your best guide on this flavorful voyage.

Flash Pasteurization

Craft Beer For Sale

Flash pasteurization has emerged as a knight in shining armor for many craft beer enthusiasts and brewers alike, ensuring both the safety and the integrity of the beloved brew. This method, involving a rapid heating and cooling process, is a modern alchemy that allows beers to retain their rich, intended flavors while eliminating potential pathogens and extending shelf life. Unlike traditional pasteurization, which might hold beer at high temperatures for extended periods, thus risking alteration of its delicate flavor profile, flash pasteurization heats the beer to a high temperature for a very short duration. This brief thermal excursion effectively neutralizes unwanted microorganisms without overstaying its welcome or dulling the beer’s vibrant character.

The beauty of flash pasteurization lies in its gentle approach to a process that could otherwise feel like walking a tightrope over a pit of flavor compromise. It’s particularly beneficial for craft breweries that distribute their liquid art beyond the local taproom. By swiftly elevating the beer’s temperature and then quickly cooling it down, the process preserves the nuanced expressions of hops, malt, and yeast. Consequently, beer lovers can enjoy their favorite brews with the confidence that each bottle or can maintains the quality and taste intended by the brewer, even if it journeys from fridge to room temperature and back.

Moreover, flash pasteurization doesn’t just play a defensive role by guarding against spoilage; it also embraces the beer’s journey, acknowledging that the path from production to consumption isn’t always a straight line of constant refrigeration. This method fortifies the beer against the unpredictability of storage conditions without compromising its soul. Whether a beer aficionado accidentally lets a bottle warm to room temperature or deliberately experiments with varying temperatures to unlock flavor profiles, flash pasteurization ensures that the beer’s essence remains intact, ready to tell its story and delight the senses, sip after thoughtful sip.

Embracing Flexibility: A Toast to Temperature Tolerance

The takeaway from our exploration? While respecting the craft and properly storing your beers, don’t let the temperature police dampen your spirits. Beer is resilient, and its journey from the fridge to room temperature and back again is not only okay but can also be a path to deeper appreciation.

So, the next time you accidentally leave that bottle out a bit too long, remember: It’s not a misstep; it’s an opportunity. Here’s to the nuanced, ever-surprising world of craft beer—may we never stop exploring its depths, no matter the temperature. Cheers!

Update: Pints and Panels

A recent Pints and Panels piece about the urban myth.

Recently Pints and Panels – https://www.pintsandpanels.com/ – posted about the “Urban Myth” of not letting beer go from cold to room temperature. Her quick summation is a good take away of how people have allowed this urban myth to fully germinate – particularly in America.

Craft Beer Trends to Watch in 2024

B. Kline — Mon, 01 Jan 2024 07:56:58 +0000

Craft Beer Trends for 2024

As craft beer enthusiasts, we are constantly on the lookout for what’s next in the vibrant world of brewing. This year, we’ve seen brewers push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, bringing forward bold flavors, sustainable practices, and surprising collaborations that have captivated our taste buds. Here are the top craft beer trends to watch in 2024.

1. Rise of Non-Alcoholic Craft Beers

Non-alcoholic (NA) beers have been gaining traction over the past few years, and 2024 is poised to see an explosion of options in this category. Brewers are perfecting techniques to brew NA beers that retain the complexity and depth of their alcoholic counterparts. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, alcohol-free no longer means flavor-free. This trend caters not only to health-conscious drinkers but also to those looking to enjoy beer flavors at any time of the day without the effects of alcohol.

2. Local and Hyper-Local Ingredients

Sustainability continues to be a key focus, and more breweries are turning to local and hyper-local sourcing for their ingredients. This practice supports local economies and reduces the environmental impact associated with transportation. Expect to see more beers proudly advertising their use of local grains, hops, and adjuncts like fruits and herbs, which can also provide unique, regional flavors that set these brews apart from the pack.

3. Experimental and Hybrid Styles

Brewers are not just sticking to traditional styles; they are increasingly experimenting with hybrid beers that blend the lines between established beer categories. Think lagers with ale-like hopping levels, or stouts brewed with wild yeast strains typically used in sour beers. This experimentation is also seeing the rise of ‘fusion beers’ that incorporate elements from different brewing traditions, culinary techniques, or even other beverages like cocktails and wines.

4. Revival of Historical Styles

While innovation is key, there is also a growing interest in historical beer styles that had previously fallen out of favor. Styles like Gruit, made with herbs instead of hops, or traditional farmhouse ales from various European regions, are making a comeback. These beers offer a glimpse into the past and celebrate the rich history of brewing.

5. Craft Maltsters on the Rise

As craft brewers look to distinguish their offerings, there is an increasing focus on the role of malt in flavor profiles. Craft maltsters are popping up, offering malts that are not only locally sourced but also crafted to provide unique colors, flavors, and aromas. This trend is pushing brewers to explore new malt varieties and push the envelope on what malt can contribute to beer beyond the basic foundation.

6. Sour Beers Continue to Sour… and Evolve

The sour beer category continues to expand, with more nuanced and complex sour offerings hitting the market. Brewers are moving beyond basic kettle sours into more sophisticated fermentation techniques, including mixed fermentation and the use of wood aging to introduce deeper flavors. Additionally, the use of non-traditional fruits, spices, and even vegetables in sour beers is on the rise, creating endless possibilities for innovation.

7. Eco-Friendly Brewing

Finally, sustainability isn’t just about local sourcing. Breweries are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices across their operations, from solar-powered breweries to water reclamation and waste reduction techniques. Consumers are more conscious than ever about their environmental impact, and supporting breweries that share these values is becoming a significant factor in purchasing decisions.

As we continue through 2024, these trends suggest that the craft beer industry will remain as dynamic and exciting as ever. Whether you’re a brewer or a beer lover, there’s much to look forward to—new flavors, old classics revisited, and innovative practices that make us proud to be part of this community. Here’s to another year of great beer and great company! Cheers!

Thank You For Reading

If you like this article, please check out our other many articles, including news, beer reviews, travelogues, maps, and much much more. We greatly appreciate everyone visiting the site!

Cheers.

MAPS OF BREWERIES

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

The Beer Thrillers on LinkTree can be found here: The Beer Thrillers LinkTree.

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

Hoppy Easter – Five Great Central PA IPAs (2023)

B. Kline — Sun, 09 Apr 2023 13:06:52 +0000

Hoppy Easter Everyone!

Hoppy Easter

Hoppy Easter everyone! I hope the best for everyone of all religions and dominations have a wonderful and Hoppy Easter today. I am just about to make breakfast using the hop shoots that are popping up and growing, but first wanted to get this fun little IPA article posted.

(Hoppy Easter – IPAs [2020])

Cascade Hops Popping Up (2023)

As you can see above, my cascade hops are already springing up pretty quickly. (You can find images on our Instagram here: The Beer Thrillers – Instagram.) I will be cutting these early shoots to make breakfast this morning, possibly doing a Hop Shoots Omelet, I’ve done this in years past.

Hop Shoots Omelet

(That’ll probably be an article for tomorrow then. I’m not a big foodie or great cooker, so fingers crossed it’ll go well.)

In the meantime, lets take a look at five great Central PA IPAs, of this season. Enjoy!

Five Great Hoppy Central PA IPAs

Green Machine – Boneshire Brew Works

Green Machine by Boneshire Brew Works

Beer: Green Machine
Brewery: Boneshire Brew Works
Style: IPA – American
ABV: 7.2%
IBU: 75
Untappd Description: Green Machine! Green Machine! Green Machine! This hop fueled juggernaut smashes your senses with its not-so-delicate bouquet of floral notes, tropical fruits, and pine. Drink up IPA lovers, drink up.

Global Average Untappd Rating: 3.80 (as of 4.9.23)
My Untappd Rating: 4.25

This is one of my favorite IPAs and why I lead off with this one. Its a year round flagship at Boneshire Brew Works, and it is absolutely delicious. If you get the chance to stop in at either of their locations, you have to try it.

Lollihop by Troegs Independent Craft Brewing

Beer: Lollihop
Brewery: Troegs Independent Craft Brewing
Style: IPA – Imperial / Double
ABV: 8.2%
IBU: N/A
Untappd Description:

We Taste: pear, citrus, hint of Melon.

When we make our annual pilgrimage to the hop-growing hotbed of Yakima Valley, we’re like kids in a candy store. We eyeball the hops on the lines, crush them in our hands and rub them til their oil fill the air. LolliHop brings together three of our favorites. Dry-hopping with Citra and Mosaic layers in notes of orange, grapefruit, and melon, while Azacca in the kettle adds hints of papaya and pineapple. Locally harvested rustic pale malt provides the backbone, and wheat and oats make this beer silky smooth with a touch of haze.

Global Average Untappd Rating: 4.03 (as of 4.9.23)
My Untappd Rating: 3.75

A fan favorite this time of year here in Central PA. Living five minutes from the brewery certainly has its perks. This is one of Drew (of Knights of Nostalgia)’s favorites from Troegs, and his favorites in general. Personally I can’t wait for Nimble Giant season which will be right around the corner.

Silent Disco by Funk Brewing

Beer: Silent Disco
Brewery: Funk Brewing
Style: IPA – New England / Hazy
ABV: 6.1%
IBU: 62
Untappd Description: A bowlful of tropical juicy flavors.

Global Average Untappd Rating: 3.89 (as of 4.9.23)
My Untappd Rating: 4.25

This is a fun New England IPA. It might not be their most notable, but its certainly one of their stellar flagship IPAs. They have many other IPAs that are very good as well like Citrus IPA, Double Citrus IPA, Pipe Dream, and Prop, and even a Double Disco. We have previously reviewed their seasonal IPA – Royal Rumble. (As well as another beer from them – Griddle.)

Broken Heels by New Trail Brewing Company

(Broken Heels by New Trail Brewing Company)

Beer: Broken Heels
Brewery: New Trail Brewing Company
Style: IPA – New England / Hazy
ABV: 7%
IBU: N/A
Untappd Description:

A Hazy IPA hopped intrepidly with hand-selected Citra and Mosaic, leading to High Aromatics of luminous Citrus, rich Conifer, and refreshing Tropicals. This beer packs a full mouthfeel with low bitterness that is soft on the palette. Broken Heels is available all day everyday, and reminds us that no adventure is without its risks.
Pack The Essentials.

Global Average Untappd Rating: 3.94 (as of 4.9.23)
My Untappd Rating: 4.25

Albeit this is a little bit north of Central PA (Harrisburg wise), but its everywhere here. Sheetz, WaWa’s, Rutters, you name it, you can find it in their beer coolers. While I do love hammering some of the tall boys of these, I do typically prefer the Double Broken Heels, a good four pack of the Double Broken Heels will have you feeling all kinds of good.

We did review this previously here: Beer Review: Broken Heels. Here’s a brief quick excerpt:

This is like drinking hoppy juicy dank orange juice. It is so full of citrus fruit juicy hop taste and is just so easy to drink. You get a flourish of hop notes as soon as you start sipping, you get citrus, you get the tropical fruits, you get practically no bitterness, you just get a smooth drink. The pilsner malts and the flaked oats gives this a really smooth and tasty brew and just makes it like a wonderful NEIPA that drinks easy. After one sip of this you can quickly see why New Trails Brewing Co. is known for their outstanding IPAs.
Beer Review: Broken Heels (New Trail Brewing Co.)

We have reviewed a few other New Trail Beers in the past, and I know I can sometimes get a bit cynical of their IPAs tasting the same, but at the end of the day, their IPAs are absolutely wonderful even if they are all very similar. (You can find our review of Icicle here – Beer Review: Icicle.)

Annville iPA by Rotunda Brewing Company

Beer: Annville iPA
Brewery: Rotunda Brewing Company
Style: IPA – New England / Hazy
ABV: 7.8%
IBU: 110
Untappd Description: (Blank)

Global Average Untappd Rating: 3.90 (as of 4.9.23)
My Untappd Rating: 4.00

This is the highest IBU on the list. But thats nothing to hold against this (or to prop it up either I suppose). No Central PA IPA list would be complete without this wonderful IPA on it (so, it might be five on my list, but its not the least, or the last, this list is in no order). This is a delicious, juicy IPA, very tasty, and you can find it at Rotunda Brewing Company’s main brewery in Annville, or their brewpub in Hershey, or at a lot of different bars in the Hershey, Harrisburg, Hummelstown, Palmyra, Annville, Lebanon area.

We’ve reviewed a couple from them, such as: Juicy Fruit sWheat Tart, Irish Car Bomb Nitro Stout, Chewbacca, and Mango Guyabano sWheat Tart. Please check them out.

Hoppiest of Easters

Just want to wish everyone one last time, the Hoppiest of Easters. If you are looking for more great IPA and beer review and related articles from us, please be sure to check these out:

Thank You For Reading

I hope everyone has a wonderful day. I’m off to make breakfast for Amy and Scarlet (well, she’s not gonna be eating, but all the same), and myself. Later we are getting my older three girls, and will have a wonderful Easter day. I hope the same for all of you.

We are currently starting to work on creating maps of all the breweries in each state, starting geographically with Maine. So be on the lookout for these great resources to soon be popping up on the blog. Hoping to get a state done every 2 – 4 days. (Some will be quicker and easier than others, but 50 states, plus Washington D.C., will certainly take some time!)

We just got the Maine map done, you can see that here: Map of Maine Breweries.

Currently right now we are in the Finals of our Battle of the Breweries (2023). You can check out the final four breweries left in the Finals Fatal Four Way here and vote:

The Battle of the Breweries (2023) – Finals Fatal Four Way (Voting Page)
The Battle of the Breweries (2023) – Conference Finals (Results Page)

In the upcoming two weeks I am going to do a more thorough look at the full tournament, breaking down the votes and how well each conference winner did. I will also do a full write up on each of the breweries in the Finals Fatal Four Way too, where I will list what articles we’ve done about them, and my visits to each of those places.

Thank you everyone for reading and please like, share, follow, subscribe, all that good stuff you see at the end of every YouTube video.

Cheers All!

-B. Kline

You can check out our different directories here: Beer Reviews, Hike Reviews, Book Reviews, Brewery News, Brewery Openings, Brewer Interviews, and Travelogues.

Please be sure to follow us on our social media accounts – Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Influence. Please be sure to also follow, like, subscribe to the blog here itself to keep updated. We love to hear from you guys, so be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think!

The Beer Thrillers are a blog that prides itself on writing beer reviews, brewery reviews, travelogues, news (especially local to the Central PA brewery scene), as well as covering other topics of our interests – such as hiking, literature and books, board games, and video games which we sometimes stream with our friends over at Knights of Nostalgia. We are currently listed as #7 on FeedSpot’s “Top 100 Beer Blogs” and #8 on FeedSpot’s “Top 40 Pennsylvania Blogs”. (As of January 2023.) Thank you for reading our site today, please subscribe, follow, and bookmark. Please reach out to us if you are interested in working together. If you would like to donate to the blog you can here: Donate to The Beer Thrillers. Thank you!

If you would like to reach out to us for product reviews, beer reviews, press release writing, and other media – please contact us at thebeerthrillers@gmail.com. Thank you.

Beer Education: Module Four: Hops and Spices

BKline — Wed, 15 Apr 2020 18:19:38 +0000

Finally we’re up to the module all you hop-heads were looking forward to. Module Four: Hops and Spices! I imagine most of you will be caring about the hops of it; not the spices, but both are intricate to brewing (as you will see with this module). So let’s continue our journey and adventure through the Science of Beer Brewing!

Module four starts off, just like the others, with an introduction video. The intro video is by Stijn and is only 1:31. The second page is a 4 minute video introducing hops. As most know, hops are used to bitter, add flavor, and to help stabilize beers. It was also quickly realized in the 11th century that hops also help add to the shelf-life of beer. So between this and the taxation of gruit in Germany, there was a lot more reason and emphasis for brewers to go from using gruit to using hops in brewing. In 1516 the purity laws in Germany reduced the usage of herbs and spices even more.

Hops scientific name is humulus lupulis. (The lupulis or lupulin is the power inside the hop cones.) Hops are primarily cultivated for brewing and beer production (but can also be used for tea, sleep aides, and soap). 75% of hop production and growth takes place in Germany and the United States (primarily in the Yakima Valley).

Only the female plants are used for beer brewing, as they grow the flowers and the cones. Its these cones that have the lupulin (resin) that contains the molecules of interest for brewing. For this reason male hop plants are not grown with the female to prevent pollination. (To learn more about hop growing, I will be posting an article shortly about my own hop growing from my own growing hops this spring. At my house I have Cascade, Centennial, Nugget, and Saaz, and looking at possibly getting more.)

After clicking NEXT, we come to a text page about the role of hops and hop compounds. Characteristics of beer that are altered by hops include: beer bitterness, beer flavor, mouthfeel, foam stability and lacing, improved shelf life, antibacterial properties of the hops, protein precipitation during wort clarification, and phenolic antioxidants.

There are four major hop molecule classes:
* alpha acids – hop bitter acids
* beta acids – not as important due to most being lost during the brewing process
* essential oils – important contributors to the beer’s flavor, bitterness, and aroma
* polyphenols – important for the beer stabilization (haze, foam, lacing)

The page continues with a large chart of the various compounds and their weight (when the hops are still wet). This is followed by a second chart showing what hop compounds are retained in beer (after the brewing process). There is an important note to remember; that beers with dry-hopping (particularly IPAs) the aroma is going to be higher and greater due to the dry-hopping.

Our next page is another text page – hop types and varieties. “The Latin name of the hop plant is Humulus lupus L., belonging to the plant family Cannabaceae (this plant family, for example, also contains the Cannabis plant species!). There are many different hop varieties and around 100 of these are commercially cultivated. New varieties are constantly being bred in order to obtain better growing and resistant plants and hop cones with superior qualities.” (EdX – The Science of Beer Brewing.) Hops are somewhat similar to most seed plants as far as naming, with the heirloom, for example, older hop varieties have a double naming pattern. The first name refers to the origin of the variety and the second name refers to the actual (modern / current) variety. So – example – Hallertau Magnum would be: Hallertau as the geographic origin, and the Magnum refers to the variety of the hop. Some heirloom fruit and vegetable seeds do this as well, or do something similar but naming its pedigree rather than geographic origin. Some more modern and newer hops, have just one name, like Cascade hops, which name comes from the Cascade mountains of Oregon.

The three different classes for hops are: bittering hops, aroma hops (including noble hops), and dual-purpose hops (which; just as the name implies – they contribute to both bittering and aroma). About 60% of hop production is aroma hops, primarily for IPAs and due to IPAs growth in the craft beer sphere.

Before moving on, at the bottom of this page is pull-down tabs for each of the classes, with information and some examples of hops of each type. The next page is a discussion page talking about home brewing and what hops you have used, I posted the following:

I grow my own hops, and love using the types I grow – Cascade, Chinook, Centennial, Nugget, and Saaz. I like making a wet-cone and dry hop IPA at harvest time using the Cascade and Centennial, as well as Chinook. I’ve also done a clone of Troegs’ Nugget Nectar as well.

I have pictures of my hops on my blog and the blog’s Facebook page.
https://thebeerthrillers.home.blog/

The following page is a three-question (true or false) quiz.

Moving on, we come to the alpha acids. And we’re starting to get into some ‘real science’ here. This page has the molecule diagrams, and discusses what acids and molecules are in the alpha acids and in the hops.

The five alpha acid molecules found in hop resin are cohumulone, humulone, adhumulone, prehumulone and posthumulone. These molecules differ only slightly from each other in their molecular structures depending on the side chain at the C2 position (see table). The most important alpha acids are cohumulone and humulone. Their content can be up to 50% of the total alpha acid fraction. Adhumulone is the third most important alpha acid representing around 10-15% of alpha acids across different varieties. Each of these molecules results in a different type or quality of bitterness. Cohumulone is for example believed to contribute to a rough and harsh bitterness. Therefore, the cohumulone content of bitter hops can be high, while a high fraction is not desired for aroma hops.
Alpha acids are commonly present in the range of 2 up to 20% (w/w) of the hop cone content. Importantly, these alpha acids themselves are not causing bitterness, they are the precursors. Only during boiling, the alpha acids are converted into iso-alpha acids (isomers of the respective alpha acids) via a thermal isomerization reaction (acyloin-type ring contraction). These iso-alpha acids are the principal source of bitterness in beer. In addition, iso-alpha acids are more soluble in water compared to the alpha acid precursors.
EdX: The Science of Beer Brewing – Alpa Acids

As you might have guessed, the next page is about the beta acids, and is similar, showing the chemical chains and discussing their molecular makeups. Both of these pages are fascinating with their diagrams of the chemical structures and the nuance knowledge it provides about these alpha and beta acids in hops.

The next page is ‘intermezzo on determining beer bitterness’ and is a text page. This page discusses determining beer bitterness and figuring out a beer’s IBU. An important note at the end of the page: “Importantly, IBU values do not necessarily match the bitterness as it is actually perceived when drinking the beer. Perceived bitterness can be influenced by for example, alcohol level, residual sugars and the use of roasted malts. ” (EDX – Science of Beer Brewing.)

Our next page is about essential oils – and no, its not that crap your wife’s friend Karen keeps trying to sell her; this is about hops essential oils. This is a very long page, with a large chart, followed by pull tabs of lots of information. This is followed up by a page on polyphenols. After this is a tough quiz, so you better have studied.

We next have an expert clip from Professor Thomas Shellhammer about dry hopping. After his informative 8 minute video is a 3 minute video by Stijn about hopping techniques. There is then a few pull tabs of information, and another video by Stijn – summary.

The next page is all about hop products. It discusses hop pellets, hop extracts, pre-isomerised hop products, reduced pre-isomerised hop products, and hop aroma products. The next page is another quiz.

The following page is a verified track learner page about ‘favorite hops’ and ‘popular hops’. After that is a discussion page on spices before we get into the spices segment of this module.

Spices have been used since beer was first brewed, but really used in medieval times. They were used for preserving the beer a bit longer, aroma, flavor, and to mask off-flavors. Some popular spices were: juniper, anise seeds, caraway and coriander seeds. Gruit was especially popular during this time (pre-hops). Some spices that would have been a part of gruit was: yarrow root, juniper berries, ginger, sage and rosemary. We still commonly use spices in Belgian beers, particularly witbiers, these spices are: coriander seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange peel. Regional and seasonal beers will often use seasonal spices and flavors (like yam / pumpkin beers and winter warmers).

There is a lengthy chart at the bottom of this page, detailing what spices can be used (or at least what are commonly used), how they are used, what part is used, the flavor they impart, beer examples, and some bonus comments.

Clicking NEXT we come to a page with the aroma compounds of spices. This page lists their chemical structures, aroma compounds, and where these compounds are found. After this, we have a 3 minute expert clip from Dr. Gert De Rouck about spices. This is followed by a 4 minute video for the ‘Do It Yourself’ experiment for this module.

Following the video is a discussion about the experiment; I wrote:

I took a pretty non-descript pale ale brewed by a friend homebrewer that didn’t have much more than just a “Mr Beer” flavor kit to it, so it was relatively bland (but fine and acceptable beer). I experimented using coca nibs and vanilla to try and give it a bit of a cookies and cream flavor to it (or at least a punch in that direction).

I was amazed at how it did certainly pick up those flavors. Though I don’t think taste-wise it turned out necessarily the best, but it did definitely pick up the flavors of the nibs and vanilla.

After this is a verified track learner page (spiced beers). Followed by a “quick knowledge check”. After the quiz is a page about what materials to collect for Module Five. Following this is the typical ‘overview and check’ page at the end of each module. Then there is an assessment page for verified track learners. After that is the feedback and questions page that ends each module. Once you click NEXT you will be brought to the “congratulations you finished Module Four”. Clicking NEXT again will bring you to the intro page for Module Five.

So follow with me next time when we move onto the next important ingredient in brewing: YEAST.

Cheers everyone!

-B. Kline

IPAs - The Beer Thrillers

How Much Sugar Is in IPA Beer? A Full Comparison with Other Beer Types

How Much Sugar Is in IPA Beer? A Full Comparison with Other Beer Types

Key Takeaways: Comparing Sugar Levels in Beer

What Contributes to Sugar in Beer?

Sugar Content in IPA Beer: Why It’s Low

How Different IPA Styles Compare in Sugar Content

IPA vs. Other Beers: How Do They Compare?

IPA vs. Regular Beer

IPA vs. Light Beer

IPA vs. Non-Alcoholic Beer

Why Some Commercial Beers Use Corn Syrup

The Relationship Between Sugar and Alcohol in Beer

FAQs About Sugar in IPA Beer

Does IPA beer have sugar?

How much sugar is in a 12 oz IPA?

Is IPA healthier than regular beer?

Is there a lot of sugar in beer?

Final Thoughts: Sugar in IPA Beer and Beyond

Key Takeaways: How IPA Beer Stacks Up in Sugar Content

More Links and Information

Articles on the History of Beer

Thank You For Reading

How Much Sugar is in IPA? A Deep Dive into the Sugar Content of India Pale Ales

How Much Sugar is in IPA? A Deep Dive into the Sugar Content of India Pale Ales

Key Takeaways:

What is the Sugar Content in IPA Beer?

The Fermentation Process Explained

Original Gravity (OG) vs. Final Gravity (FG)

The Types of Sugars in IPAs and How They Differ from Other Beers

Comparing Sugar Content in IPAs vs. Regular and Light Beers

Why Some Commercial Beers Have More Sugar

FAQs About Sugar in IPA Beer

Does IPA Beer Contain Sugar?

How Many Grams of Sugar Are in a 12 oz IPA?

Is IPA a Healthier Beer Option?

What Beer Has the Lowest Sugar Content?

Conclusion: IPAs Offer Bold Flavor, Not Sugar

More Links and Information

Articles on the History of Beer

Thank You For Reading

Tavour: Your Guide to Craft Beer Delivered Right to Your Door

Tavour: Your Guide to Craft Beer Delivered Right to Your Door

What is Tavour?

How Does Tavour Work?

Why Tavour is Perfect for Craft Beer Enthusiasts

The Best Breweries on Tavour

1. Fremont Brewing (Seattle, WA)

2. Great Notion Brewing (Portland, OR)

3. The Bruery (Placentia, CA)

4. Urban South Brewery (New Orleans, LA)

5. Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. (Decorah, IA)

Is Tavour Worth It?

How to Maximize Your Tavour Experience

Final Thoughts

More Links and Information

Articles on the History of Beer

Thank You For Reading

Mellow Mink Brewing is Closing

Mellow Mink

Mellow Mink Brewing is Closing

Other Mellow Mink Articles

For More Information on Mellow Mink Brewery

Brewery News

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The Misunderstood Journey from Chilled to Room Temperature: Why Your Craft Beer Is Still A-Okay

The Misunderstood Journey from Chilled to Room Temperature: Why Your Craft Beer Is Still A-Okay

The Fear of Flavor Loss: A Misguided Concern

The Real Culprits: Light and Time

Proper Storage: The Key to Longevity

The Taste Test: Trust Your Palate

Flash Pasteurization

Embracing Flexibility: A Toast to Temperature Tolerance

Update: Pints and Panels

More Beer Education Series Articles

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Craft Beer Trends to Watch in 2024

1. Rise of Non-Alcoholic Craft Beers

2. Local and Hyper-Local Ingredients

3. Experimental and Hybrid Styles