Every Wednesday I take a trip to the local haunt in my hometown in Jersey to sample a few brews and have a relaxing time with old friends. I've been a margarita girl for pretty much forever, but recently I started to enjoy the taste of cold beer: frothy wheat or a genuine pale ale can really refresh one's life. Since New York City is definitely different from New Jersey, I went out to a nice bar with my boyfriend and a few close buds to sample the variety that the big city has to offer. There are six tips I've picked up to help you choose the right cold one:
1. Discern your taste
Each person has a different palate, as well as different preferences for taste. Does the aroma of apples or pears tingle your Spidey senses? Does the rustic smell of a dark, bitter Guinness get your heart running? Choose the sort of flavor you enjoy the most and work from there.
2. To hop or not to hop?
Hops are an important part of the beer choosing process. Beers with extra hops in them tend to lie on the bitter end, while those with less hops are milder and can be quickly sipped without remorse. Even though "bitter" usually comes with bad connotations, do not take them to heart. Bitter ales can be just as enjoyable as a mild ones.
3. Decide if you prefer domestic or import
A domestic beer is a beer brewed in the United States, while imports are ones from countries like Germany, Japan, Belgium or Ireland. Some German and Irish beers may be heavy, while Japanese or Belgian beers are more often than not of the lighter variety. The Belgians are known in the US for their pale ale Blue Moon with a light, citrusy taste. Quick tip: It's delicious with two slices of orange placed in the pint glass!
4. Ask the bartender
The barkeep is usually the most knowledgeable when it comes to the pints he pulls. If you're jonesing for a particular flavor, they can tell you what varieties will best soothe your craving. There may be instances, however, where the staff lacks the information you seek, and asking a close friend who's out with you is the second best step.
5. Do a little research
Browsing the Internet is one of the best ways to find out anything and everything you want to know about ales, bitters and ciders. Wikipedia has a draft of information, with regular updates on the latest trends in beer. If you want to find the perfect sip, or chug in some cases, a lot of beer lovers will be able to help you out. There are forums, chatrooms and various websites that will rate alcohol. One of my favorites is the Beer Advocate, which allows members to log in and post their review of each sampling they make. Be wary, as drinking a beer is a purely personal opinion. Some may praise Miller Lite while others will turn down a pint of Boddington's.
6. If all else fails, try a cider!
Ciders are a refreshing alternative to a yeasty pint. For those who do not enjoy the taste of beer but don't want to feel left out when heading to a pub with a few mates, try something with a crisp flavor and no bitter after-taste. A pint of cider is a clever way of convincing your peers that you're able to leave the cocktails in your liquor cabinet but still enjoy a sweeter flavor. Ciders usually run from Woodchuck (very sweet, but lots of variety) to Magner's (a subtle Irish cider that won't induce a sugar-rush headache). A very creative twist is the Snakebite, which mixes cider and ale, retaining the mild sweetness and a slightly bitter tang.
The best beer tip I can give anyone is to enjoy themselves! Having a few pints is a fun and relaxing experience, especially in a great atmosphere with great friends. Happy Swilling!
For more awesome tricks, tips and techniques to choosing your favorite liquor for that night out, check out Behind the Burner!
Kaitlin A. Lipe
