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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
Latest Posts
- 57/m: Love beer, but it doesn’t love me as much anymore
- No Stupid Questions Wednesday – ask anything about beer
- Does anyone else get treated like a beer snob for ordering literally anything that isn’t a macro lager?
- Is there a polite way to refuse a beer that’s being served in the wrong glassware without making everyone at the table uncomfortable?
- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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Finding the Perfect Beer for Beginners: A Guide to Non-Bitter Options
If you’re new to the world of beer and find yourself deterred by bitterness, you’re not alone. Many novices look for a gateway beer that is both approachable and enjoyable, especially in social settings. If you belong to this group, read on for some expert recommendations that could help ease your journey into the beer realm.
Seeking a Familiar Flavor
At 19, I tried a Coors Light during a lakeside gathering, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me. With my 27th birthday approaching, I’m ready to revisit the beer landscape, armed with a more refined palate. Yet, I still encounter difficulty with overly bitter flavors.
Recommendations for Non-Bitter Beers
If you share my taste preferences, here are some beginner-friendly beers that lack that overpowering bitterness:
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Wheat Beers: These are often light in flavor and come with a mildly sweet, fruity tone. American wheat beers, such as Blue Moon or Bell’s Oberon, are great starting points.
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Blonde Ales: Known for their smooth texture and balanced taste, blonde ales like Kona Brewing’s B draft or the light-bodied Lagunitas DayTime IPA can provide a small hop character without overwhelming bitterness.
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Pilsners: If you want something crisp and refreshing, consider a pilsner. Beers like Pilsner Urquell or Michelob Ultra offer a clean taste that’s easy to enjoy.
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Cream Ales: These beers, such as Genesee Cream Ale or Anderson Valley’s Cream Ale, often have a smooth, sweet finish that can mask any strong bitterness.
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Hard Seltzers: Though not technically beer, hard seltzers are a popular choice among those who prefer lighter, often fruit-flavored beverages without a hoppy bite.
An Acquired Taste
While I haven’t fully developed a taste for beer just yet, I believe that with a little exploration, I can find my niche. If I’ve managed to adapt to diet soda over the years, I’m optimistic about expanding my palate to include a refreshing beer or two.
So, if you’re in a similar situation, don’t hesitate to try one of these options. They might just pave the way toward your newfound appreciation for beer, allowing you to enjoy social occasions without the dread of bitterness. Cheers to the journey ahead!