As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that the difference between wort and beer lies in the fermentation process. Wort is essentially the precursor to beer, the liquid that is created by steeping grains, such as barley, in hot water. During this process, the enzymes in the grains convert the starches into sugars, creating a sweet, malty liquid known as wort.
Wort is then boiled and hops are added to provide bitterness, aroma, and flavor to the beer. The boiling process also helps to sterilize the wort and extract any remaining sugars from the grains. After boiling, the wort is cooled, and yeast is added for fermentation.
Fermentation is the key step that transforms wort into beer. Yeast consumes the sugars in the wort and produces alcohol and carbon dioxide as byproducts. This fermentation process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the style of beer being brewed.
During fermentation, the yeast also imparts its own flavors and aromas to the beer, further enhancing its complexity. Once fermentation is complete, the beer is typically aged for a period of time to allow flavors to mellow and develop.
So, in summary, wort is the sweet liquid that is created by steeping grains in hot water and is the starting point for making beer. Beer, on the other hand, is the final product after the wort has undergone fermentation by yeast, resulting in the production of alcohol and carbon dioxide, as well as the development of unique flavors and aromas.
To further illustrate the difference, let me share a personal experience. I remember brewing a batch of beer at home and being amazed at the transformation that occurred during fermentation. The wort, which initially tasted sweet and grainy, eventually turned into a complex and flavorful beer. It was fascinating to witness the magic of fermentation and see how the wort evolved into a completely different beverage.
Wort and beer are distinct stages in the brewing process. Wort is the unfermented liquid that is created by steeping grains in hot water, while beer is the final product after fermentation has occurred. The fermentation process is what truly differentiates wort from beer, as it converts sugars into alcohol and carbon dioxide, and adds unique flavors and aromas to the beverage.