Beer, often referred to as the world’s oldest and most widely consumed alcoholic beverage, has seen a significant evolution over the years. With the craft beer revolution and the rise of microbreweries, beer enthusiasts now have a plethora of options available at their local beer store or on-premises site.
If you’re new to the world of beers or looking to expand your palate, this guide will introduce you to the diverse styles available, especially those you might find at your local beer store.
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Lager: The World’s Favourite
Lagers are perhaps the most widely consumed beer style globally. Characterised by their crisp, clean taste and golden colour, lagers are brewed using bottom-fermenting yeast, which gives them their distinct flavour profile. They are best enjoyed cold and are often the go-to choose for many due to their light and refreshing nature. When you pop into your local beer store, you’ll likely find a variety of lagers from different regions, each offering a unique taste and aroma.
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Ale: Rich and Diverse
Ales, with their top-fermented process, are known for their rich and robust flavours. They encompass a wide range of sub-styles, from the hoppy India Pale Ale (IPA) to the dark and malty stout. Depending on the brewing process and ingredients, ales can be fruity, bitter, or even sour, offering a diverse range for every palate. They are often the choice for those looking for a beer with character and depth.
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Wheat Beer: Light and Refreshing
Wheat beers, predominantly brewed with wheat, are often hazy with a light, refreshing taste. They are the perfect choice for a summer day, with subtle notes of fruit or spices. Some wheat beers even have a slight citrus undertone, making them a favourite for those who prefer a tangy kick to their drink.
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Porter: Dark and Toasty
Originating from London in the 18th century, porters are dark ales known for their roasted malt flavours. They often have hints of chocolate, caramel, and coffee, making them a favourite during colder months. If you’re after a hearty beer with depth and a rich history, a porter might just be your pick at the local beer store.
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Stout: Rich and Creamy
Stouts, similar to porters but generally thicker and creamier, are a delight for those who love their beers dark. The most famous subtype is the Irish Dry Stout, epitomised by brands like Guinness. However, there are also sweet stouts and imperial stouts, with the latter boasting a higher alcohol content and a richer flavour profile.
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Pilsner: Crisp and Bitter
Pilsners, a subtype of lagers originating from the Czech Republic, are pale gold with a distinct hoppy bitterness. They are the perfect choice for those who want a beer that’s light yet packs a punch in terms of flavour. Their crisp nature makes them popular in many beer gardens and pubs as well as in local liquor stores.
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Belgian Styles: Complex and Varied
Belgian beers are renowned for their complexity. From the fruity and spicy Belgian Dubbel to the strong and dark Quadrupel, Belgian beers are often bottle-conditioned, meaning they mature in the bottle and can be aged like wine. This ageing process often results in a beer that is rich in flavour and has a unique character.
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Sour Beers: Tangy and Adventurous
For those with an adventurous palate, sour beers offer a tangy alternative. Brewed with wild yeast strains, these beers can be intentionally acidic, tart, or even funky. They are a testament to the brewer’s skill and creativity, often resulting in a beer that is both challenging and rewarding to the palate.
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Hybrid/Mixed Styles: Best of Both Worlds
With the craft beer revolution, brewers are experimenting by blending different beer styles. From Black IPAs that combine the best stouts and IPAs to Belgian-style Stouts that merge the richness of stouts with the complexity of Belgian beers, hybrid beers offer unique flavours that challenge traditional beer categorisations.
Discovering Your Perfect Brew at Your Local Beer Store
The world of beer is vast and varied. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious newbie, there’s always something new to discover. The best way to explore is by visiting your local beer store, where you can find a curated selection of premium beers. Remember, the joy of beer lies not just in drinking it, but in the journey of discovery.
So, why wait? Head to your local beer store and embark on a flavourful adventure in 2023!
