When it comes to exploring the world of craft beer as a newbie, it can be overwhelming with the wide range of styles and flavors available. However, there are a few beer styles that are great for beginners to try. As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I have seen many people embark on their beer journey, and these styles have proven to be popular choices.
1. IPAs (India Pale Ales):
IPAs are known for their hop-forward flavor profiles, which can range from floral and citrusy to piney and resinous. They are often characterized by their bitterness, which can be intense for beginners. However, IPAs also offer a wide range of flavors and aromas that can be quite enjoyable once you acquire the taste for them. Start with milder and less bitter IPAs, such as American Pale Ales (APAs), which have a balanced hop presence. You can gradually move on to more hop-forward IPAs as your palate develops. Personal experience-wise, I remember trying my first IPA and being taken aback by the bitterness, but after a few sips, I started appreciating the complex hop flavors.
2. Stouts:
Stouts are dark, rich, and often have a roasted malt character with notes of chocolate, coffee, and sometimes even hints of vanilla or caramel. They are usually full-bodied and offer a smooth, creamy mouthfeel. For beginners, I recommend starting with a classic dry stout, like an Irish stout. These tend to be less sweet and have a lower alcohol content compared to heavier stouts like Russian Imperial Stout. I remember my first sip of a stout – the smoothness and depth of flavors were unlike anything I had experienced before, and it quickly became one of my favorite beer styles.
3. Sours:
Sour beers have gained popularity in recent years, and they can be a great choice for newcomers to craft beer. These beers are intentionally acidic and tart, often with fruity or funky flavors. They can range from mildly tart to mouth-puckeringly sour. One beginner-friendly sour style is the Berliner Weisse, which is light, refreshing, and often served with fruit syrups to balance the tartness. Another option is a fruit-infused sour like a raspberry or cherry sour, which can provide a pleasant introduction to the world of sour beers. Personally, I was initially hesitant to try sours due to their reputation for being extremely tart, but once I gave them a chance, I discovered the complexity and refreshing qualities they offer.
4. Blonde Ales:
Blonde ales are a more approachable and easy-drinking beer style that can serve as a great starting point for craft beer novices. They are typically light in color, have a clean and crisp flavor profile, and a moderate level of hop bitterness. Blonde ales often exhibit a balance between malt sweetness and hop bitterness, making them a versatile and enjoyable choice for beginners. This style can be a stepping stone to exploring other beer styles as you develop your palate. I remember my first blonde ale – it was light, refreshing, and had a pleasant maltiness that was easy to appreciate.
When you're new to beer, it's important to start with styles that offer a balance of flavors and aren't too overwhelming. IPAs, stouts, sours, and blonde ales provide a diverse range of options to explore. Remember, everyone's taste preferences are different, so don't be afraid to try different styles and experiment until you find the ones that suit your palate. Cheers to your beer journey!