Exploring the World of Craft Beer: A Guide for Beginners

"IBUs" and "SRMs" might sound foreign…

BY STAFF @the Brimly Test Kitchen

March 27, 2023

Image Source/Editors @ Brimly

2 minutes Read

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How-To Guide

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Maybe you're eager to explore the world of craft beer, but with such a plethora of options available, how do you go about selecting the perfect one? Fear not, intrepid beer drinker! Who knows - you might discover your new favorite beer. Cheers to that!

Craft beer has come a long way since it was just a niche interest for beer enthusiasts. Nowadays, a new microbrewery is opening every week, each claiming to offer a unique and delicious take on the classic beverage. In fact, the entire industry has grown so much that it is overwhelming for a beginner to know where to start. But fear not, intrepid beer drinker! We're here to guide you through craft beer's exciting and sometimes confusing world.

The Craft Beer Scene Today.

What's the Right Craft Beer for You?

Perhaps you're ready to dive into craft beer, but with so many confusing options, how do you choose the right one? First of all, be confident with the jargon that gets thrown around by beer snobs. Terms like "IBUs" and "SRMs" might sound foreign. Still, they're technical terms for bitterness and color, respectively. So, instead, focus on the flavor profiles that you enjoy. If you're a fan of hoppy beers, look for IPAs. If you prefer something sweeter, try a fruit-infused ale. And feel absolutely free to ask for recommendations from the bartender - they're usually more than happy to share their expertise.

Pairing Craft Beer with Food.

Now that you've chosen your craft beer, it's that time to take it to the next level by pairing it with food. This sounds like a daunting task, but it's actually a lot of fun. The secret is to balance the flavors of the beer and the food. For example, a spicy dish pairs well with a beer with a bit of sweetness to balance the heat. And if you have a hearty meal like a burger or steak, a bold and rich stout or porter can stand up to the flavors. But let's be honest - sometimes you want to pair your craft beer with good old-fashioned junk food. And that's okay! We won't judge you for pairing your IPA with a bag of Doritos. After all, beer and snacks are a match made in heaven.

Our round-up is:

And there you have it - a beginner's guide to exploring the world of craft beer. Feel free to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Who knows - you just might discover your new favorite beer. Cheers to that!