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Step 1
Try different kinds of beers. Sure, you have your old standby, but next time you go to the store pick up something different. Ask friends and shop owners for recommendations. The best way to appreciate beer is to branch out and try as many different kinds as you can.
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Step 2
Know the basics. To fully appreciate beer, you should understand the basic ingredients. Beer is composed of varying combinations of barley, hops, yeast and water. Beer can generally be divided into two categories – lagers and ales. Lagers are lighter in color and taste and are the most commonly encountered. Ales are darker and have a stronger, fruitier taste.
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Step 3
Notice the characteristics. There are four different colors: amber, red, brown or black. Notice the clarity of the beer and the head. Swish the beer around gently in the glass and note color changes or whether the head leaves trails on the glass.
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Step 4
Sniff the beer. The smell of a beer can reflect the malting and the type of hops used. Beer aromas can range from fruity and citrusy to toasty coffee or chocolate. Enjoy the bouquet since the taste can be greatly influenced by the aroma.
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Step 5
Taste the beer. Here comes the fun part. Pour the beer at an angle so that it hits the middle of the inside of the glass (to create the perfect head). Now slowly taste the beer. Swish it around a bit in your mouth so that all your taste buds are engaged and savor the flavor. Notice the taste on the back of your throat when you swallow. It may be flavorful, malty or fruity, light or full-bodied. Pay attention to the finish as well.
