Posted by:
fortheloveofhops
(
)
Date: August 31, 2015 12:49PM
I agree with the previous suggestions to visit a pub or brewery and taste a flight of various styles.
I enjoy beer very much and like a a variety of styles. They can taste wildly different, though most are made with the same 4 basic ingredients (water, malt, hops, yeast). Brewing techniques, differences in malt/grains, the type of yeast used, the variety and amount of hops used (and when and how long they are added to the brew), mineral content in the water, temperature and length of fermentation, style of carbonation, and extra additions to the wort make each brew unique.
(I homebrew, but still a beginner at it. Super fun hobby, btw!!)
Anyway, remember, if you get a flight of tasters, you don't have to drink them ALL. Pick the ones you like most, and find out what style they are. Then later on, try more of those styles, maybe from a different brewery, to compare.
Most flights will come with a little info chart or placemat that includes name & style of beer, IBU (bitterness), ABV (alcohol by volume), etc.
Geez- all that to say, I guess, pick a beer that tastes good to you first, and then pay attention to your limit with that beer if you want to avoid overindulging and a hangover. If you drink on a full stomach and stay hydrated with water, that will help. There is some trial and error to be prepared for here. Plan to have someone else (sober) drive when you're out drinking.