Beer, likely the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage, is brewed from many different grains in a wide range of styles. Though often enjoyed straight, many have distinctive flavors that work well in mixed drinks. Those featured in this book were selected for their particular attributes, from bitter to spicy to creamy to citrusy.
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Mexican, Dark
This deep amber beer is very smooth and full-bodied.
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Mexican, Light
A light lager pilsner, this has a mild aroma and flavor coupled with touch of hop bitterness.
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Irish Lager
Defined by a method of cold fermentation, this pale, lighter-bodied lager has a clear, crisp solidity.
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American, Light
Brought to America by German immigrants, this style of pale, modestly hopped lager often contains rice or corn.
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Vermont IPA
Hailing from the Green Mountain state, this India Pale Ale is defined by an approachable roundedness, juicy mouthfeel and fruity aroma.
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Ginger
Brewed ginger beer (non-alcoholic) is carbonated and lightly sweetened, with the pronounced spiciness and aromatic flavor of real ginger.
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Pale Ale
Made by warm fermentation using predominantly pale ale, distinct brewing methods result in a ranges of tastes and strengths within this category.
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Wheat Beer
Brewed with a large proportion of wheat relative to the amount of malted barley, this pale, creamy beer is often characterized by a light sweetness.
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English Pale Ale
Dry with a balanced happiness, this is the classic choice for mulled ale, one of the oldest beer cocktails.
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Belgian Pale Ale
The style is similar to the traditional English pale ales, but less bitterly hopped.
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Belgian White
This unfiltered ale is very pale and cloudy, with a crispness and slight twang. It is spiced, most often with coriander and orange peel.
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Guinness Draught
Sometimes called “a meal in a glass,” this complex brew has a distinctive dark color, rich roasted flavor and creamy head.
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Harp Lager
Created by Guinness in 1960, this pale Irish lager is smooth and solid brew.
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Dry Irish Stout
One of the most common stouts, this has a lighter body despite its roasted character. The bitterness comes from a generous dose of hops.
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Hard Cider
Made from the fermented juice of apples, alcoholic ciders range from cloudy with sediment to completely clear, and from almost clear to dark brown in color. They are classified from dry to sweet and can be found in still and sparkling varieties.