Back to Basics: Beer Terms Part 2

In addition to knowing the styles of beer you like, its important to know how to describe beers. While there isn’t exactly a standardization for describing the flavors and textures of beers, there are a few terms that are commonly used.

·         Aggressive: An assertive aroma and/or taste

·         Balanced : The malt and hops are in near even proportions and an equal representation of the malty sweetness and hoppy bitterness

·         Bouquet: The aroma given off by the hops

·         Clean: Leaves little or no aftertaste

·         Color: Light or dark, can be helpful when deciding on unfamiliar beers

·         Complex: It has many complimentary flavors

·         Crisp: Highly carbonated or clean

·         Finish: The lingering flavor after the beer has been swallowed

·         Floral: Full of aromas reminiscent of flowers

·         Fruity: Flavors reminiscent of various fruits

·         Head: The amount of foam on top of a poured beer

·         Heavy: If a beer has a thick consistancy

·         Hoppy: Herbal, earthy, spicy, or citric aromas and flavors of hops

·         Light: Describes the color, or used to describe a thinner consistancy

·         Malty: Grainy, caramel-like; can be sweet or dry

·         Roasty/toasty: Malt (roasted grain) flavors

·         Robust: Rich and full-bodied

·         Skunky: A sulfurous smell that comes when a beer has aged too long