What beer sommeliers won’t tell you…

They could tell you that a beer bottle will break if left in the freezer for too long, but your plastic coke bottle will freeze up. But they won’t. They’d be too busy sampling the beer that’s in front of them. That’s why we’re here to help you serve your beer the right way.

The right temperature

Some beers are designed to be served cold. This is because it optimizes the flavour. If beers are stored at home, make sure you constantly keep a check on the temperature. We recommend between 12 to 18 degrees for ales and 4 to 8 degrees for lagers. Cellars are also acceptable to store your beers. Bottles should be kept out of the fridge for a while before consuming.

The perfect crown of foam

For the right head of foam, put down that large coffee cup you use and start using actual beer glasses. For light lagers or pilsners use a Pilsner Glass. For Belgian ales and Flanders Red use a Tulip Glass. For Belgian sours, pale ales and strong ales use a Chalice. For your light lagers and stouts use a Pint Glass. The dark beer served in a tulip glass allows the beer to air out, while giving you a better sense of the rich aroma.

Coming to the whys and wherefores of the holy foam head, the right beer glass will allow for the right amount of foam and in turn, help the drink to stay fresh and preserve its taste. That being said, thoroughly wash beer glasses as even the tiniest bits of residue will prevent a good head. Pour the beer at a 45-degree angle. Fill up half the glass and turn it upright. Now continue pouring till the foam reaches the brim. It is recommended to serve beer with a 2 to 3 cm. head. The perfect crown of foam is one with a thick consistency and tiny bubbles.