Evaluating beer is an art as much as a science. We are judging beer every time we drink, whether we realize it or not. Evaluation is something that can be learned, with practice and a little knowledge of the terminology. Since beer has been around since the dawn of civilization, so has beer tasting and evaluation. These days, the science behind the sensory evaluation of beer has become so advanced that the subject can fill a book.
Today, more than ever before, homebrewers and beer enthusiasts alike are interested in the flavor, aroma, body, and even the history behind the beers they make and consume.
Today's beer drinkers are more sophisticated than ever. So why would you want to learn the art and science of evaluating beer? For the home brewer it seems obvious, to make better beer, to be able to improve your beer each time you brew it or to brew it consistently.
For the average beer drinker, the reasons to learn about different beer styles are not as obvious. You can live your life in a casual and detatched manner, or you can live life with gusto. Each of us decides how much energy and awareness we spend on everyday events. You may drink a light American lager and believe there is nothing better in the world, or you may delve deep into the complexities of the world's varied beer styles. Get passionate about the wondrous complexity of the beer you drink. Experiment and train your palate to notice the nuances of a well brewed beer. To quote Thomas Matthews, Executive Editor of Wine Spectator, "Passion is never wasted effort." So this is why you should learn all about beer. To have more passion in your life. The effort alone is worthwhile and the knowledge you gain will add another dimension to the basic act of drinking great beer.
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