BEER 101

QUESTION: What's the difference between a beer drinker and a beer connoisseur?

ANSWER: A little beer knowledge and a lot of beer drinking. In a beer 101 class we get a good helping of both for beer enthusiasts of all walks. We discuss beer chemistry, history, geography and nomenclature, all the while drinking our way towards true beer appreciation.

There are several formats that an introduction to beer class might take, ranging from a single class to a series of many classes. Typical topics covered are: 

• Beer ingredients (malt, hops, yeast, water)
• Brewing process
• Serving, storage and cellaring
• Beer regions and styles

Here’s an abbreviated sample beer listing from a marathon three and a half hour introduction to beer class Josh taught at a local gourmet cooking school.

• Pilsner Urquell
• Gouden Carolus Triple
• Rogue Mocha Porter
• Paulaner Hefeweizen
• Anchor Steam
• Barley Johns Double IPA
• Capital Blonde Doppelbock
• Summit Bigfoot