How to Taste Beer

Evaluating beer can be confusing. With close to 100 beer styles and even more ingredients, it can be difficult to understand what you are drinking. The key is to have a process that breaks it down into simple steps. In this video, Beer for Dummies author Marty Nachel breaks down the process that professional beer judges use to taste beer.

THE PROCESS

Assess the Aroma

  • What ingredients am I smelling? What does this remind me of? (ex. bubble gum, candy corn, etc.)

Assess the Look

  • Color, clarity and head retention

Assess the Taste

  • Foretaste, mid-taste and aftertaste

Assess Mouthfeel

  • Warmth, astringency, bitterness, tannins, etc.

Assess the Body

  • Heavy, light, etc.

Reflect on the Beer

  • Quality, style accuracy, personal preference, etc.

Whether you are a beginner or an expert, following this process will give you the framework you need to taste any beer.