Yoko, a European beer loverWhy does beer taste good even though it's bitter?
It's a simple question, but I'm sure there are many people who can't find the answer.
ConclusionThe secret to delicious beer isThe flavor is complex and well-balancedThe perfect combination of bitterness, sweetness, sourness, and aroma allows you to enjoy a new taste with every sip. This balance is what makes beer so appealing.
In this article, we'll explain:
- Three elements that shape the taste of beer
- Why beer tastes so good
- How to Taste Beer
Author: MyakoWhen I went to a beer garden with friends for the first time in my university days, I was surprised at how different the beers tasted. At first, I didn't know which one to choose, so I just ordered the most popular beer, but the lightness and refreshing taste was so refreshing that I enjoyed the different flavors as I drank.
Through this experience, I discovered the joy of tasting beer!
Three elements that shape the taste of beer
①Flavor
Flavor is the basic component of beer's taste and includes the following tastes and aromas:
- taste
The flavor of beer is formed by a combination of three main tastes: sweet, sour, and bitter.
- bitter taste(hop)
Hops are the main source of bitterness in beer. They have a distinctive bitter taste that gives beer a sharp taste, especially in styles like IPA. Hops also contribute aromas, which can include citrus, pine, and floral notes. - Sweetness(malt)
Malt creates the base sweetness of beer. In particular, flavors such as caramel, toast, chocolate, and coffee come from malt. Sweetness is important for balancing beer and is easily compatible with the bitterness of hops. - acidity(fermentation)
The sourness of beer comes from the yeast and fermentation process. This sourness is especially pronounced in sour beers and lambics, giving them a refreshing flavor. The sourness from fermentation gives beer a unique freshness and sharpness, making it perfect for hot weather and light dishes.
- scent
Aroma has a significant impact on the flavor of beer. A variety of aromas are created depending on the raw materials used and the brewing process, such as fruity aromas, spicy aromas, and roasted malt aromas. Aroma and taste are closely related, and the perception of aroma enriches the overall flavor impression. - Differences in style
Different beer styles have very different flavors: lagers are generally clean and smooth, IPAs have strong bitterness and fruity aromas, and stouts and porters have deep roasted aromas and sweetness.
②Mouthfeel
Mouthfeel refers to the sensation or texture that a beer has when it enters your mouth.
- texture
The mouthfeel of beer can be described by a variety of textures, including lightness, richness, creaminess, etc. For example, ales are generally full-bodied and creamy, while lagers are light and smooth. - The effect of carbonation
Carbonation level also impacts mouthfeel: highly carbonated beers have a fizzy, lighter feel, while less carbonated beers have a smoother, creamier mouthfeel. - Drinkability
A smooth beer is easy to drink and provides a feeling of being swallowed quickly. Conversely, a heavy beer is better for a style that allows you to enjoy a full flavor slowly.
③Aftertaste
Aftertaste is the taste and aroma that lingers after drinking beer.
- Sustainability
The length of the finish varies depending on the characteristics and style of the beer. Beers with strong flavors will have a long finish and their flavors will linger for a while after you have finished drinking them. For example, a rich stout will have a sweet and roasted aroma that will linger for a long time after you have finished drinking it. - Type of aftertaste
There are various types of aftertaste, such as a lingering sweetness, a bitter taste, or a fruity aroma. This can greatly change the impression you have after drinking it.
Yoko, a European beer loverThe combination of these three elements - flavor, mouthfeel and finish - determines the overall taste and drinkability of the beer.
When drinking beer, being aware of these factors will help you enjoy the flavor more deeply!
Why beer tastes so good
The reason why beer, with its complex flavor, tastes so good is related to the workings of the mind and the body. Below, we will explain the main reasons in an easy-to-understand way.
- Good balance of flavours
Complex beers have a good balance of bitterness, sweetness, sourness, and aroma. This balance allows you to discover new flavors every time you drink it, giving you a deep sense of satisfaction. For example, a sweet beer will soften the bitterness, and the addition of sourness will enhance the overall flavor. This harmony makes the drinker feel comfortable. - Taste stimulation
When multiple tastes are experienced at the same time, the brain receives a pleasant sensation. The presence of sweetness, bitterness, sourness, and aroma all together allows the drinker to enjoy a variety of flavors. This allows the drinker to experience a different experience every time they drink it, so they can enjoy it without getting bored. - The joy of exploration
Drinking a beer with complex flavors offers new discoveries every time. Humans are creatures who seek new experiences, and the complexity of beer stimulates that desire to explore. Enjoying the changes in aroma and flavor gives you a deeper experience, which results in a more delicious taste. - Connecting with emotions and memories
Taste and aroma are deeply connected to our emotions and memories. Complex beers can evoke certain memories and emotions, making the experience even more delicious. For example, the taste of a beer you drink at a special event or during a fun time with friends will be special and memorable.
Yoko, a European beer loverIt's the combination of these factors that makes a beer with complex flavors taste so good!
How to Taste Beer
To truly enjoy beer, it's a good idea to know how to taste it. We'll introduce you to the tasting method for enjoying beer and the steps you can take to get the most out of the flavor of beer.
Beer is best enjoyed with the eyes. Check the color, clarity, and head retention to determine the style of beer. The appearance of the beer can be a good indicator of the flavor, with lagers having a clear golden color and stouts having a deep black color.
Bring your nose close to the glass and enjoy the aroma of the beer. The aroma of hops, fruit, malt, etc. tickles your nose, allowing you to understand the characteristics of the beer more deeply. You can feel the individuality of the beer from the aroma, such as the floral aroma of hops or the fragrant aroma of malt.
Take a small sip of beer and feel the flavor with your whole tongue. First, explore the sweetness and sourness, then the bitterness of the hops, and taste how each element balances. A complex beer allows many different tastes to intertwine in one sip, making it a delight for the drinker.
The overall balance of the beer is evaluated by sensing the flavor and aftertaste that remains in the mouth after swallowing the beer. The aftertaste of a beer, such as a lingering bitterness or a lingering sweetness, symbolizes the individuality of its flavor.
Judge the taste, aroma, appearance, and aftertaste of the beer comprehensively to find the beer that suits your taste. The best part of beer tasting is enjoying your own evaluation while considering how well the individual elements harmonize and whether it is suitable for the drinking situation.
summary
The appeal of beer lies in the complexity and diversity of its flavor. Elements such as bitterness, sweetness, sourness, aroma, mouthfeel, and aftertaste all intertwine to provide a different experience with every glass. In order to enjoy beer more deeply, it is important to incorporate tasting techniques and explore the deeper flavors. Try different beers and experience their appeal to the fullest.
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