When it comes to determining the best gas for beer, it ultimately depends on the style of beer being served. Different gas mixtures are used to achieve the desired carbonation and mouthfeel for different styles of beer.
For ales and lagers, a 60% CO2/40% nitrogen gas mixture is commonly used. This mixture provides the right amount of carbonation and a smooth mouthfeel, enhancing the overall drinking experience. The CO2 helps carbonate the beer, while the nitrogen adds a creamy texture to the beer, similar to what you would find in a nitrogenated beer like Guinness.
On the other hand, stouts usually require a different gas mixture. The ideal gas mixture for stouts is a 25% CO2/75% nitrogen mix. This higher nitrogen content creates a thick and creamy head on the beer, enhancing its appearance and texture. Stouts are known for their rich and velvety mouthfeel, and the nitrogen helps to achieve that desired characteristic.
It's important to note that the pressure at which the gas is dispensed also plays a role in the carbonation and mouthfeel of the beer. The pressure is typically measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and can vary depending on the style of beer.
For ales and lagers, the recommended PSI is usually between 20 and 25. This pressure allows for a moderate level of carbonation and a balanced mouthfeel. It's important to find the right balance, as too much pressure can result in overcarbonation and a fizzy beer, while too little pressure can lead to a flat and lifeless beer.
In the case of stouts, a slightly higher PSI is often used, ranging from 30 to 40. This increased pressure helps to achieve the desired creamy and velvety texture, as well as the thick and lasting head.
Personal Experience:
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to experiment with different gas mixtures and pressures for various beer styles. One particular experience that comes to mind is when I was brewing a stout and wanted to achieve that classic creamy texture and thick head. I used a 25% CO2/75% nitrogen gas mixture and applied a higher PSI during dispensing. The result was a beautifully smooth and velvety stout with a rich and decadent mouthfeel. It was a hit among stout lovers and truly showcased the potential of using the right gas mixture.
The best gas for beer depends on the style of beer being served. For ales and lagers, a 60% CO2/40% nitrogen mix is ideal, while stouts benefit from a 25% CO2/75% nitrogen mix. The proper PSI also plays a significant role in achieving the desired carbonation and mouthfeel. Experimentation and finding the right balance of gas mixture and pressure can lead to exceptional beer experiences.