Beer guide

Beer

Beer is fermented grain shaped by malt, hops, yeast and water. To understand beer, compare color, bitterness, fermentation type and body.

Quick facts

BaseMalted grain, hops, yeast and water

AlcoholUsually 3-10% ABV

ServeChilled, in a glass that suits the style

Taste mapMalt sweetness, hop bitterness, yeast aroma and carbonation

These places are strongly associated with beer through origin, production, serving culture or everyday ritual.

Grain is mashed into wort, boiled with hops, fermented by yeast and conditioned. Lagering, dark malts and hop timing create very different styles.

Germany	Beer has a visible cultural connection here through production, serving ritual or everyday drinking culture.
Belgium	Beer has a visible cultural connection here through production, serving ritual or everyday drinking culture.
Czechia	Beer has a visible cultural connection here through production, serving ritual or everyday drinking culture.
Lithuania	Beer has a visible cultural connection here through production, serving ritual or everyday drinking culture.
Ireland	Beer has a visible cultural connection here through production, serving ritual or everyday drinking culture.

LagerClean fermentation, crisp finish, usually cold-conditioned.

AleWarmer fermentation, often fruitier yeast character.

PilsnerPale, crisp, hop-bitter and refreshing.

Wheat beerSoft body, grainy sweetness and yeast aromatics.

StoutDark roasted malt, coffee, cocoa and creamy body.

Aroma	Smell first: fruit, grain, roast, herbs, spice, oak or fermentation tell you what to expect.
Texture	Notice body, bubbles, tannin, creaminess or alcohol warmth.
Finish	A short finish feels simple; a long finish keeps changing after you swallow.
Food match	Pair intensity with intensity: delicate drinks with lighter food, bold drinks with richer or saltier dishes.