A trip to a brewery is a great way to spend a lazy afternoon, but it can also be an educational experience. You may want to learn more about beers to enhance your dinner parties, to improve the beer you serve at your restaurant because you're a budding homebrewer, or for multiple other reasons.
Regardless of why you want to learn more about beer, here are some tips on how to turn your next brewery visit into an educational affair.
1. Try multiple beers
Often, at a bar, people will settle in and drink the same beer all night long. While you can do this at a brewery, you should try multiple beers to get the most from the occasion. Ask for small sizes or order a flight which is a sampling of several different types of small beers. You don't need to down pints — you just need to explore.
2. Don't spit
People frequently spit at wine tastings because it allows them to taste more wines, without risking getting over-intoxicated. Unfortunately, this isn't a great practice at a brewery. You experience a lot of the taste of the beer as you swallow it. So, pace yourself because spitting isn't an option if you truly want to learn about the beer's flavor.
3. Choose food pairings carefully
Everything you put in your mouth affects how your beer tastes. So, try to avoid smoking or chewing gum, and choose your food carefully.
Many brewpubs offer meals or snacks. Choose options that will best bring out the flavors of the beers you are tasting. Avoid overly flavorful foods that will compete with the beer.
4. Ask the server for info
Your server isn't just someone who carries the beer to your table. They can be a wealth of information about the beers available at the brewpub. Talk with them about what distinguishes different types of beers such as lagers, IPAs, porters, and so on.
Ask them what makes their versions of these beers special. And of course, get their recommendations about the best food pairings. Don't be afraid to ask why the server is recommending something. After all, if you want to learn, you have to inquire.
5. Come during a special event
Many brewpubs host special events that can also help you learn more about beers. For instance, they may have beer dinners where local chefs design courses that pair perfectly with different types of beers. That can be a visceral learning experience.
Sometimes, they may host educational nights to talk about homebrewing or other topics related to beer. Many breweries also have guided tours on a regular basis, where free samples are a popular staple.