Sorghum beer, also known as traditional African beer or opaque beer, is a popular beverage in many African countries. It is made from fermented sorghum grains and has been enjoyed for centuries. One of the common questions that arises is whether sorghum beer contains alcohol.
The short answer is yes, sorghum beer does contain alcohol. However, the alcohol content can vary depending on the brewing method and fermentation time. Traditional brews can have an alcohol content ranging from 1% to 8% ABV (alcohol by volume). This means that the beer contains 1% to 8% alcohol in relation to the total volume of the liquid.
It's important to note that not all sorghum beers have the same alcohol content. Many traditionally brewed sorghum beers tend to have a lower alcohol content, typically ranging from 3% to 4% ABV. This lower alcohol content is due to the fermentation process and the use of specific yeast strains.
During the fermentation process, yeast converts the sugars present in the sorghum grains into alcohol. The yeast consumes the simpler sugars first, such as glucose and fructose, and then moves on to more complex sugars like maltotriose. Maltotriose is the last sugar to be fermented by the yeast, and its conversion into alcohol is often incomplete. This is why some sorghum beers still contain maltotriose and have a slightly higher residual sugar content.
The presence of maltotriose in sorghum beer contributes to its slightly sweeter taste compared to other traditional beers. It also adds to the body and mouthfeel of the beverage. The residual sugar content can vary from batch to batch and can affect the overall flavor profile of the beer.
In my experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste different sorghum beers with varying alcohol contents. The lower alcohol versions tend to be lighter and more refreshing, making them a popular choice in hot climates. The higher alcohol varieties, on the other hand, often have a richer and more complex flavor profile, making them suitable for savoring and pairing with certain foods.
To summarize, sorghum beer does contain alcohol, with traditional brews ranging from 1% to 8% ABV. However, many sorghum beers have a lower alcohol content, typically around 3% to 4% ABV. The presence of maltotriose, the last sugar fermented by yeasts, can contribute to the residual sugar content and overall flavor profile of the beer.