CRAFT BEER IS #1 CHOICE
What in heavens name is Craft Beer? Everyone talks about it but what’s the difference between Craft Beer and other kinds of beer? The official definition of “Craft Beer” changes depending on what part of the world you are in but…”craft beer” is designed to indicate the brewer’s aspirations and their high level of craftsmanship. It is brewed in small quantities not mass-produced like most beer. And…even though every style of beer has its own delicate balance of characteristics, the most popular craft beer styles worldwide are India Pale Ale (IPA) and Stout or Porter.
The boom has brought with it a much better educated beer drinker. However if you’re still sipping your expertly designed craft brew straight from the bottle or can (or a typical mass-produced glass), here’s a breakdown of what you are missing. First, it seems weird but around 70% of your perception of flavour in food and drink is thanks to your sense of smell. (This is why when you have a head cold, nothing tastes good). The best Craft Beer glasses (we suggest Spiegelau) have space for a frothy head as well as room above the surface of the beer so you can stick your nose in and have a good smell. Next-temperature affects flavour components in beer differently-malt characteristics become weaker when cooler but hops is not affected at all. Ever notice how the last part of the beer in your bottle is warm and flat? A thin-walled glass ensures a cooler beer from start to end. As well, a quality crystal glass will encourage the beer to maintain a thick, creamy head as you drink-not just for the first few mouthfuls. And…last but not least…beer is a carbonated beverage that releases carbon-dioxide gas into your belly when you drink from a bottle. When you pour your beer into a glass, a lot of this gas is let out…thus making you way less bloated.
The Spiegelau Craft Beer Glass collections comprises five custom-shaped glasses for IPA (India Pale Ale), Stout, American Wheat Beer, Barrel Aged Beer and Pilsner. The unique shapes have been developed through a series of design and tasting workshops to go on to win many worldwide prizes. The range is dishwasher safe and highly recommended. Craft Beers deserve crafted glasses.
From Rob McIntosh to you…Cheers.