Hundreds of beers on tap and on the shelves can feel overwhelming. The good news: most of them are easy to understand once you know a few basic styles.
Lager
Bottom-fermented, clean and dry. Pale gold, refreshing, with a delicate bitterness. It is the classic starting point for most people, and a pilsner is its hoppier cousin.
Wheat beers
Soft and fruity. Often with notes of banana and clove and a smooth, creamy head. Good for summer and for anyone who does not like bitterness.
Pale ale and IPA
Hoppy and aromatic. Citrus, tropical fruit or resin, depending on the hop variety. An IPA is usually stronger and more bitter than a pale ale.
Stout and porter
Dark, roasted notes. Coffee, cocoa and caramel. Despite appearances they do not have to be heavy, and they taste great in winter.
How to choose
- Like coffee without sugar? Try a stout.
- Prefer sweet drinks? Start with a wheat beer.
- Want something distinctive? Take an IPA.
At The Beer Store we are glad to help you pick a first beer, just ask the staff at any venue.
