As a seasoned sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that bees are generally not attracted to beer. Bees are known for their affinity towards flowers and their nectar, which they use to make honey. They are primarily attracted to the sweet scents and vibrant colors of flowers, as they are key sources of their food and energy.
When it comes to beer, the scent and taste profile is quite different from that of flowers. Bees have highly developed olfactory senses and can detect a wide range of scents, but the aroma of beer is not typically one that would entice them. Beer has a distinctive malty, hoppy, and sometimes yeasty smell that is not reminiscent of the sweet floral fragrances that bees are naturally drawn to.
Furthermore, bees are not inclined to seek out alcohol as a food source. Their digestive systems are not adapted to process alcohol, and consuming it can be harmful to them. Bees are generally focused on gathering pollen and nectar to sustain their colonies, not on seeking out alcoholic beverages.
On the other hand, wasps are more likely to be attracted to beer. Wasps are scavengers and are known to be attracted to sugary substances, including fruit juices, soda, and yes, even beer. They are drawn to the sweet flavors and aromas that these beverages can offer. If you've ever enjoyed a picnic or outdoor gathering with some open cans or bottles of beer, you may have noticed wasps buzzing around, trying to get a taste.
Wasps can be quite persistent in their pursuit of sugary substances, and their presence can be quite bothersome, especially if you're enjoying a cold beer on a warm summer day. They are more likely to be attracted to the sweet residue left on the rim of a beer bottle or can, or even to spills or drips on the table or ground.
In my personal experience, I have encountered wasps buzzing around beer cans and bottles during outdoor events. They are attracted to the sweet aromas and are often quite insistent in their attempts to access the liquid inside. It's always a good idea to cover your beverage when not actively drinking it to avoid any unwanted encounters with these pesky insects.
To summarize, while bees may show some curiosity towards beer due to its unique scent, they are not typically attracted to it as a food source. Wasps, on the other hand, are more likely to be drawn to the sweet flavors and aromas of beer, making them a potential nuisance during outdoor gatherings.