Storage and Service of Beer Flashcards
Provides guidelines on proper storage and serving techniques for beer. (32 cards)
When in its lifecycle does beer begin to change?
As soon as it is brewed.
What is the main contributor or cause of damage to beer?
Exposure to oxygen, heat, or light.
When are most beers at their best?
When they are fresh.
What happens to hop aromas and bitterness as beer ages?
They can fade.
What can beer taste like if it is too old?
Paper or wet cardboard.
What is one simple way to check that your beer is fresh?
Check to see if there is a bottled on or best before date on the packaging.
What is the best way to store beer?
Keep it cool or refrigerated.
What happens if beer is stored at room temperature for too long?
It will lose its freshness and become stale more quickly.
What happens if a beer is stored at a high temperature?
It can rapidly degrade.
What happens if beer is exposed to sunlight or artificial light?
It can cause undesirable aromas, also known as light strike.
Which beer storage vessels are opaque?
Cans and kegs.
Therefore no light can reach the beer.
What level of protection do brown bottles provide for beer?
They prevent almost all damaging light from reaching the beer.
What level of protection do green and clear bottles provide for beer?
Little or no protection at all.
If used, these bottles should remain in the boxes they are packaged in.
Why is it important to keep beer sealed in its packaging until service?
- Prevents exposure to oxygen.
- Preserves aromas .
- Preserves carbonation.
How quickly should beer be consumed once the container is opened?
Immediately for best results.
Why can kegged beer remain fresh even when the keg is tapped?
Because the beer draft system uses carbon dioxide gas under pressure, which protects the beer from oxygen.
What are three common beer faults?
- Staling
- Light strike (skunking)
- Bacterial infection
What are the characteristics of staling in beer?
- Hop aromas and bitterness fade.
- Off-flavors such as paper or wet-cardboard.
What are the characteristics of light strike or skunking in beer?
- Skunky notes
- Scorched hair
- Cat urine aroma
What causes light strike in beer?
Hop compounds are exposed to light.
What are common causes for bacterial infection in beer?
Poorly maintained beer lines in a draft system.
This can lead to bacterial growth in the lines.
Most municipalities require beer lines be cleaned approximately every 2 weeks.
What are common characteristics of bacterial infection in beer?
Flavors such as vinegar or rancid butter notes.
What are some common reasons for the choice of glassware for beer service?
- Personal preference
- Tradition
- Culture
What general features should be considered when choosing a beer tasting glass?
- A rounded bowl helps with swirling.
- Inward-sloping walls help direct aroma to the nose.
- Narrower glasses help with head-retention.
