If you want to really analyze a beer, it will take much more than just gulping it down and then making a rash judgment of “it’s crap” or “it’s great.” Even though the actual tasting of a beer will be different from person to person, there are a few steps that you can follow that will help you to not only taste beer, but also appreciate its flavors.
Look
Before you start swigging it down, take a minute to pause and actually look at the color of the beer. Raise the beer up in front of you, but never hold it up to the direct light as this will wind up diluting the real color. As you look at the beer, describe the color, consistency and head.
Agitate
Gently swirl the beer in its glass. This will pull out the slight nuances, aromas and stimulate and loosen the carbonation, wall while testing the retention of the head.
Smell
Up to 95 percent of what you actually experience is done so through your sense of smell. You should breathe through your nose twice, then while your mouth is open and then through only your mouth. If necessary, you can agitate the beer once more to ensure that you are not in an area that has some overpowering aromas. Take time to enjoy the bouquet of fragrances.
Taste
Now it is time to sip your beer; however, resist the urge to swallow right away. Instead, let the flavors explore and wander over your entire palate. Take note of the beer in your mouth, the consistency of the body of the liquid and also breathe out while you are tasting. When you exhale with the beer in your mouth, this is a process that is actually referred to as retro-olfaction and works to release any retained stimulations at the mouthfeel and mucus level, but at a much higher temperature. When you are doing this, try to detect any type of bitterness, acids, salty or sweet flavors or anything else you notice in the taste. Try to think about what they are or what they are like.
When you use these tips for tasting beer, you will be able to truly appreciate its flavor. Additionally, next time you visit a Traverse City Brewery, you can impress your friends with your beer tasting knowledge and capabilities.
Next time you want to visit a Traverse City Brewery, visit the Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours website for more information.
