As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that beer can indeed be kept at room temperature. However, it is important to understand that the long-term storage conditions can have an impact on the flavor and quality of the beer.
Beer is a remarkably stable product, thanks to its alcohol content and low pH level, which help to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. This stability means that in the short term, whether you store your beer in the fridge or in a cupboard, it is not going to make a significant difference to its flavor.
That being said, over a long period of time, a beer stored at room temperature will deteriorate at a slightly faster rate than a beer stored in a fridge. This is primarily due to the fact that higher temperatures can accelerate the aging process of the beer, leading to changes in flavor and aroma.
When beer is exposed to warmer temperatures, the chemical reactions that occur within the liquid happen at a faster pace. This can result in the breakdown of delicate hop compounds, leading to a loss of hop aroma and bitterness. Additionally, higher temperatures can cause the beer to oxidize more quickly, resulting in a stale or cardboard-like flavor.
I have personally experienced the effects of storing beer at room temperature for an extended period of time. On one occasion, I had a few bottles of a limited edition craft beer that I intended to age. Due to a lack of fridge space, I stored them in a cool, dark cupboard instead. After about a year, when I finally cracked open one of the bottles, I noticed a significant decrease in hop aroma and an overall dullness in the flavor. While it was still drinkable, it was a far cry from the vibrant and complex beer it once was.
To mitigate these negative effects, it is generally recommended to store beer in a cool and dark place, ideally between 35°F and 50°F (2°C and 10°C). This temperature range helps to slow down the aging process and preserve the beer's original flavors for a longer period of time.
While beer can be kept at room temperature, it is important to consider the long-term effects of storage conditions on its flavor. Storing beer in a cool environment, such as a fridge or a cellar, can help to maintain its quality over an extended period of time. However, in the short term, the difference in flavor between a beer stored at room temperature and one stored in a fridge is negligible.