What To Know
- They offer a subtle balance of hops and malt, making them a versatile beer that pairs well with various foods.
- As a new drinker, it’s best to start with beers with a lower alcohol content to avoid overwhelming your palate.
- As you embark on your beer-tasting journey, remember to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to experiment.
As a novice beer enthusiast, navigating the vast and diverse world of craft beers can be overwhelming. To help you embark on this flavorful journey, we’ve curated a comprehensive guide to the best beers for new drinkers.
Understanding Beer Basics
Before delving into specific beer styles, let’s cover some essential basics:
- ABV (Alcohol By Volume): Indicates the alcohol content of the beer, typically ranging from 4% to 12%.
- IBU (International Bitterness Units): Measures the bitterness of the beer, with higher numbers indicating a more bitter taste.
- SRM (Standard Reference Method): Indicates the beer’s color, with lighter numbers representing lighter beers and darker numbers representing darker beers.
Exploring Beer Styles for Beginners
Now that you’re familiar with the basics, let’s explore some approachable beer styles that cater to the uninitiated palate:
1. American Lager
- ABV: 4-6%
- IBU: 8-18
- SRM: 2-4
American Lagers are characterized by their light, crisp, and refreshing taste. Their low ABV and bitterness make them an excellent starting point for new drinkers. Popular examples include Budweiser, Coors Light, and Miller Lite.
2. Wheat Beer
- ABV: 4-6%
- IBU: 8-15
- SRM: 2-5
Wheat beers, also known as Hefeweizens, are known for their cloudy appearance and fruity aromas. Their smooth, refreshing taste and low bitterness make them a great choice for summer days. Try Franziskaner or Paulaner Hefeweizen.
3. Blonde Ale
- ABV: 4-6%
- IBU: 10-20
- SRM: 2-5
Blonde Ales are light-bodied and golden in color. They offer a subtle balance of hops and malt, making them a versatile beer that pairs well with various foods. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and New Belgium Fat Tire are popular choices.
4. Irish Stout
- ABV: 4-6%
- IBU: 20-40
- SRM: 25-40
Irish Stouts are dark, creamy, and slightly sweet. Their roasted malt flavors and low bitterness make them a comforting and approachable beer for those who prefer darker brews. Guinness and Murphy’s Irish Stout are classic examples.
5. Pale Ale
- ABV: 4-6%
- IBU: 15-30
- SRM: 5-10
Pale Ales are amber-colored and offer a balanced flavor profile with moderate bitterness and hop aromas. They’re a good choice for those who want to explore a bit more hop character. Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA and Sierra Nevada Torpedo are notable examples.
6. Session IPA
- ABV: 4-6%
- IBU: 20-40
- SRM: 5-10
Session IPAs are a lighter version of traditional IPAs, offering a refreshing and hoppy experience without the overwhelming bitterness. They’re perfect for those who enjoy the hop flavors but prefer a lower alcohol content. Lagunitas DayTime and Stone Delicious IPA are popular choices.
7. Sour Beer
- ABV: 4-6%
- IBU: 0-15
- SRM: 2-5
Sour beers are characterized by their tart and refreshing acidity. They can range from subtly sour to intensely sour, depending on the fermentation process. Berliner Weisse and Gose are classic sour beer styles.
Tips for Choosing the Best Beer for New Drinkers
- Consider your personal preferences: Do you prefer light and refreshing beers or darker and more flavorful ones?
- Start with low ABV beers: As a new drinker, it’s best to start with beers with a lower alcohol content to avoid overwhelming your palate.
- Look for balanced beers: Choose beers that offer a balance of sweetness, bitterness, and acidity.
- Experiment with different styles: Don’t be afraid to try different beer styles to find what you enjoy most.
- Pair your beer with food: Pairing your beer with complementary foods can enhance both the flavors of the beer and the food.
Final Note: Embracing the World of Beer
As you embark on your beer-tasting journey, remember to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to experiment. The best beer for new drinkers is the one that you enjoy the most. So, raise a glass, sip, and savor the world of craft beers.
Information You Need to Know
1. What is the best beer for someone who doesn’t like bitter beers?
- Wheat beer, blonde ale, or sour beer are excellent options for those who prefer less bitter beers.
2. Can I drink beer if I’m on a diet?
- Light beers and session IPAs are typically lower in calories and carbohydrates, making them suitable options for those watching their weight.
3. What are some good beer pairings for food?
- American lagers pair well with burgers and fries, while Irish stouts complement grilled meats and hearty stews. Sour beers can enhance the flavors of salads and seafood dishes.
