If you’re a beer lover, there’s no better way to spend an evening than with friends, good beer, and some tasty snacks. A beer tasting party is a great way to do just that! Not only is it fun, but it’s also an opportunity to try new beers, learn about different styles, and improve your beer-tasting skills.
So, how do you organize a successful beer tasting? Here are some tips and tricks to get you started:
Choose your beers
Decide on the number and types of beers you want to taste. It’s a good idea to select a variety of styles, such as IPAs, stouts, lagers, and sour beers. Aim for six to eight beers, which should be enough for a two- to three-hour session. Be sure to consider the ABV (alcohol by volume) of the beers, and plan accordingly. It’s good to start with a beer that is lower in ABV and built up from there.
Set a theme for the beer tasting
Consider setting a theme for your beer tasting. For example, you could focus on beers from a specific region, such as Belgian beers or West Coast IPAs. Or you could choose a particular style, like ipas, barrel-aged beers or sour beers. If you don’t have any clue, than you can ask for advice on the bottle shop. There are also tasting boxes available online.
Invite your guests
Once you have your beer list and theme, it’s time to invite guests. Keep in mind that you’ll want to limit the number of guests to ensure everyone has a chance to try each beer and participate in the discussion. A good rule of thumb is to invite six to ten people.
Provide glassware
For a proper beer tasting, you’ll need the right glassware. Make sure you have enough glasses for each guest, and choose appropriate glasses for each beer style. For example, IPA glasses have a narrow base and wider top to showcase the beer’s aromas.
Do you want to be seen as a real tasting pro? You have to tasting buying special tasting glasses. These glasses are all-rounded and specially made for good beer tasting. Having such glasses is ideal if you are hosting tastings regularly.
Set up a beer tasting sheet
A tasting sheet is a great way to keep track of the beers you’re tasting and your impressions of each one. You can create your own sheet or find templates online. Be sure to include space to record the beer’s name, style, ABV, appearance, aroma, taste, and overall impression.
Plan food pairings
Beer and food are a match made in heaven. Therefore you have to be sure to plan some tasty snacks to accompany your beer tasting. Consider pairing each beer with a specific food, such as cheese, charcuterie, or chocolate. During the different beers it’s good to neutralize the palette. Provide some water and plain crackers to reset the palette.
Just start tasting the beers
When it’s time to start the tasting, pour a small amount of each beer into the appropriate glassware. Encourage your guests to smell, sip, and savor each beer, and to discuss their impressions with the group. Use the tasting sheet to keep track of each beer and its unique characteristics.
Last but no least: have fun!
A beer tasting is meant to be a fun and educational experience. Encourage your guests to ask questions, share their thoughts, and enjoy the company of fellow beer lovers.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to organizing a successful beer tasting. Cheers!
