Tuesday, May 3, 2011
How Is It Made?
So for all of you BEER freaks out there there is an interesting video on YouTube on how beer is made. It appears that the ingredients have not changed since the 15th century when the Nordic people discovered HOPS and added it to the process.
And just a TRIVIA fact: the largest beer consumers are the Czech Republic and the biggest beer manufacturer is People's Republic of China.
So, if you would like to know how long it takes to make a bottle of beer, watch this video!
And yes, it really takes 7 to 10 days to ferment and 3 weeks to age! Much less than fermenting wine!
A Beerful Journey
There was a point in my life, especially in my youth, where I thought all beer tasted the same. I blame this, for the most part, on ‘party beers.’ You know, the cheap stuff. The tried and true. The you-can-find-this-beer-at-any-grocery-store stuff. I’m talking about Bud Light, Heineken, Coors, Rolling Rock, and the like. Let’s be honest, we all drank this beer at some point, and we did it for one reason: to get drunk.
One fateful day, I discovered a beer called Amberbock. I was amazed. It didn’t have that typical ‘beerish’ flavor to it; it was smooth, had an earthy taste, and was a bit sweet. There was much more going on in this beer than I was used to. What was going on here? Oh, it was an Amber Ale.
I did some more research into other beers, and started taste testing, and comparing different flavors. Trying to pull out the common denominators and really dig deep into what made each one unique. This journey led me, ultimately, to my tried and true favorite beer to date, Fat Tire.
Quite possibly the best Amber I’ve tried yet, Fat Tire is smooth, yet crisp, and has an almost nutty flavor. I never knew that beer could actually taste ‘refreshing.’ This was so uniquely different than other beers, that my search broadened into other types of beers, including IPAs (India Pale Ales) and Belgian Ales. Notice the common denominator, here? Yeah, Ales. That means hops. Belgians are less hoppy than the others, and IPAs are the most of the three, but they all have their own strengths. My palette had evolved.
With time, my appreciation for the nuances of each beer has grown tremendously. All those subtleties and intricacies have made the experience of drinking beer far richer and more meaningful than “just getting drunk.” I guess I’ve grown up quite a bit, since those days.
So here’s to a sense of exploration, and adventure, not just with beer but in all areas of your life. You might be surprised with what you find.
One fateful day, I discovered a beer called Amberbock. I was amazed. It didn’t have that typical ‘beerish’ flavor to it; it was smooth, had an earthy taste, and was a bit sweet. There was much more going on in this beer than I was used to. What was going on here? Oh, it was an Amber Ale.
I did some more research into other beers, and started taste testing, and comparing different flavors. Trying to pull out the common denominators and really dig deep into what made each one unique. This journey led me, ultimately, to my tried and true favorite beer to date, Fat Tire.
Quite possibly the best Amber I’ve tried yet, Fat Tire is smooth, yet crisp, and has an almost nutty flavor. I never knew that beer could actually taste ‘refreshing.’ This was so uniquely different than other beers, that my search broadened into other types of beers, including IPAs (India Pale Ales) and Belgian Ales. Notice the common denominator, here? Yeah, Ales. That means hops. Belgians are less hoppy than the others, and IPAs are the most of the three, but they all have their own strengths. My palette had evolved.
With time, my appreciation for the nuances of each beer has grown tremendously. All those subtleties and intricacies have made the experience of drinking beer far richer and more meaningful than “just getting drunk.” I guess I’ve grown up quite a bit, since those days.
So here’s to a sense of exploration, and adventure, not just with beer but in all areas of your life. You might be surprised with what you find.
American Craft Beer Week 2011
American Craft Beer Week is May 16-22, 2011, so get out there and show your support for your local American craft beers! This is a great opportunity for craft beer fans to enjoy an American craft beer and allow breweries to build relationships with their fans.
The Brewers Association's American Beer Month was held in July until 2006 when it was changed to a weeklong event in May; right before summer's busy beer season. The weeklong event immediately became the largest national effort to focus on American craft brewers, and is still the largest event today!
Since 2006, participation has continued to increase, as you can see in the graph below.
You can find out more information about the weeklong event at http://www.craftbeer.com/pages/news-and-events/american-craft-beer-week
You can also like the ACBW's Facebook page and follow them on Twitter for event updates.
So, mark your calendars and celebrate American craft beers May 16-22, 2011!
The Brewers Association's American Beer Month was held in July until 2006 when it was changed to a weeklong event in May; right before summer's busy beer season. The weeklong event immediately became the largest national effort to focus on American craft brewers, and is still the largest event today!
Since 2006, participation has continued to increase, as you can see in the graph below.
You can find out more information about the weeklong event at http://www.craftbeer.com/pages/news-and-events/american-craft-beer-week
You can also like the ACBW's Facebook page and follow them on Twitter for event updates.
So, mark your calendars and celebrate American craft beers May 16-22, 2011!
Monday, May 2, 2011
Drink Responsibly...by Recycling!
Want to be a green beer enthusiast by doing more than just purchasing green beer? Here are some creative applications of "empties" being given another use to inspire you!
For those happen to enjoy whiskey as much as, if not, more than beer, here are some decorative glasses that were once beer bottles sold at the Museum of Modern Art. Classy, huh?
These eyeglasses were once beer bottles too!
And for the beer enthusiasts looking for that fun addition to their bars at home, this chandelier from Barlite that's sure to impress your friends.
Or, if you prefer something more romantic, here's a tealight holder:
And finally, here's a new use for all those pesky metal caps: fishing lures! Check out this video to see how it's done:
For those happen to enjoy whiskey as much as, if not, more than beer, here are some decorative glasses that were once beer bottles sold at the Museum of Modern Art. Classy, huh?
These eyeglasses were once beer bottles too!And for the beer enthusiasts looking for that fun addition to their bars at home, this chandelier from Barlite that's sure to impress your friends.Or, if you prefer something more romantic, here's a tealight holder:And finally, here's a new use for all those pesky metal caps: fishing lures! Check out this video to see how it's done:Wednesday, April 20, 2011
How to pour beer!
Wow!...who knew there was so much technique involved in pouring a beer. I just popped the top off and poured it into the glass. All this time I have been doing it wrong!
Check out the quick video above and learn how to get the most flavor out of your beer. And I thought beer couldn't taste any better...I was wrong!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Frozen Beer Trick!
Impress your friends with this cool trick! Just pop the beer into your freezer for approximately 3-5 hours, depending on your freezer. After that take it out and tap it on the table like the person in the video and voila!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
OC Beer Fest
Just thought it may be interesting to let everyone know that Orange County will have its own beer event. It will be held on May 14th, 2011 at the Irvine Lake and admission is $40. It includes unlimited four ounce pours.
What a great way to check what the local competition has to offer and to experience a great day outdoors with friends.
More information about the event can be found at: http://www.drinkeatplay.com/ocbeerfest/
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Beyonce Drinking A Beer At Coachella
It's Coachella weekend! Here's a picture captured from last year's event of Beyonce holding a cup of beer.Goes to say that there are some female beer drinkers out there as well. Rock on ladies!
Friday, April 15, 2011
BEER Knowledge; Did you know this?
There are tons of information dealing with beer, but I thought this time I should change it up a bit with some beer trivia. Anything about beer is interesting… because it's about BEER! But I didn't need to tell you that… did I?
Did you know…
Cenoscillicaphobia - Fear of an empty glass.
According to The Code of Hammurabi of ancient Babylonia (c. 1750 B.C.) a merchant could be put to death for diluting beer. Via Fordham University
Belgium has the most individual beer brands, with 400.
"I'm gonna drink lots of beer and stay out all night."
- Homer Simpson
In New Zealand, beer was unknown until the Europeans introduced it in the 1800's. The first beer was brewed on the island was made by an indigenous evergreen tree with intentions for curing scurvy. (Scurvy by Stephen R. Bown)
Beer Hint: To get rid of the foam at the top of the beer (the head), stick your fingers in it for at least 5 seconds (Never touch the beer, just the foam). It eliminates the foam thanks to the PH balance of the oils that are found on the surface of your skin.
Tegestology - Latin term defined as the practice of collecting beermats or coasters.
There is a process for drinking beer in Peru. One person buy a bottle, pours a glass, passes the bottle on to the next person, drinks it, pours the dregs (leftover beer at the bottom) on the floor, then passes the glass to the next person, who repeats the process. The last person to get a drink from the bottle usually buys the next bottle. My guess is that you do not want to be the last person drinking from the bottle!
What is the difference between a lager and an ale?
Lager, the yeast is fermented at cooler temperatures, to create a smooth, crisps, and clean-tasting beer. Lager is aged for a much longer time than Ale.
Ale, the yeast is fermented at warmer temperatures, often yields a fruity aroma and flavors. Ale uses a greater amount of sugar.
Beer Trick: Do you ever have a problem with your beer glass or mug sticking to your bar napkin? Sprinkle a little salt on the napkin before setting down your glass. Watch for yourself!
Bar Napkin Salt Trick by 5minFood
The oldest known written recipe is for beer. Beer dates back to at least 4,000 BC. The earliest Sumerian writings mentioned it. The earliest recorded recipe for brewing beer founded so far is from the ancient Babylonians
Did you know that most 12 oz. beer has fewer calories than two slices of bread and contains no fat.
Did you know, in Japan beer is sold in vending machines, by street vendors and in the train stations.
"Drinking beer doesn't make you fat, it makes you lean… Against bars, tables, chairs, and poles."
- Unknown Author
Beer is a source of B- complex vitamins.
Beer is the third most consumer beverage in the world, after water and tea.
Labeorphilist - Beer bottle collector.
Referring back to previous blog entry about National Beer Day.
The prohibition, began on January 16, 1920, which lasted 13 years, 10 months, 19 days, 17 hours, and 32-1/2 minutes, and was rescinded on December 5, 1933, at 3:32 p.m.
In a Czech beer house, the bartender will refill your glass overtime you empty it. If you place a coaster on top of your glass, it signals that you have had enough.
I can go on and on about beer but now I am now capping this off with a coaster (no pun intended), ending this random compilation of beer facts, quotes, tricks, hints, and other useless knowledge pertaining to beer. I hope you enjoyed this beer trivia. Even if water is the most consumed beverage in the world, it is not the same as drinking beer. Now you can share your world-of-beer knowledge with your friends over a nice, cold beer! Cheers!
Did you know…
Cenoscillicaphobia - Fear of an empty glass.
According to The Code of Hammurabi of ancient Babylonia (c. 1750 B.C.) a merchant could be put to death for diluting beer. Via Fordham University
Belgium has the most individual beer brands, with 400.
"I'm gonna drink lots of beer and stay out all night."
- Homer Simpson
In New Zealand, beer was unknown until the Europeans introduced it in the 1800's. The first beer was brewed on the island was made by an indigenous evergreen tree with intentions for curing scurvy. (Scurvy by Stephen R. Bown)
Beer Hint: To get rid of the foam at the top of the beer (the head), stick your fingers in it for at least 5 seconds (Never touch the beer, just the foam). It eliminates the foam thanks to the PH balance of the oils that are found on the surface of your skin.
Tegestology - Latin term defined as the practice of collecting beermats or coasters.
There is a process for drinking beer in Peru. One person buy a bottle, pours a glass, passes the bottle on to the next person, drinks it, pours the dregs (leftover beer at the bottom) on the floor, then passes the glass to the next person, who repeats the process. The last person to get a drink from the bottle usually buys the next bottle. My guess is that you do not want to be the last person drinking from the bottle!
What is the difference between a lager and an ale?
Lager, the yeast is fermented at cooler temperatures, to create a smooth, crisps, and clean-tasting beer. Lager is aged for a much longer time than Ale.
Ale, the yeast is fermented at warmer temperatures, often yields a fruity aroma and flavors. Ale uses a greater amount of sugar.
Beer Trick: Do you ever have a problem with your beer glass or mug sticking to your bar napkin? Sprinkle a little salt on the napkin before setting down your glass. Watch for yourself!
Bar Napkin Salt Trick by 5minFood
The oldest known written recipe is for beer. Beer dates back to at least 4,000 BC. The earliest Sumerian writings mentioned it. The earliest recorded recipe for brewing beer founded so far is from the ancient Babylonians
Did you know that most 12 oz. beer has fewer calories than two slices of bread and contains no fat.
Did you know, in Japan beer is sold in vending machines, by street vendors and in the train stations.
"Drinking beer doesn't make you fat, it makes you lean… Against bars, tables, chairs, and poles."
- Unknown Author
Beer is a source of B- complex vitamins.
Beer is the third most consumer beverage in the world, after water and tea.
Labeorphilist - Beer bottle collector.
Referring back to previous blog entry about National Beer Day.
The prohibition, began on January 16, 1920, which lasted 13 years, 10 months, 19 days, 17 hours, and 32-1/2 minutes, and was rescinded on December 5, 1933, at 3:32 p.m.
In a Czech beer house, the bartender will refill your glass overtime you empty it. If you place a coaster on top of your glass, it signals that you have had enough.
I can go on and on about beer but now I am now capping this off with a coaster (no pun intended), ending this random compilation of beer facts, quotes, tricks, hints, and other useless knowledge pertaining to beer. I hope you enjoyed this beer trivia. Even if water is the most consumed beverage in the world, it is not the same as drinking beer. Now you can share your world-of-beer knowledge with your friends over a nice, cold beer! Cheers!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Blue Moon Grand Cru Limited Edition
If you enjoy drinking the original Blue Moon, which is a Belgian White Ale, then you'll enjoy this limited edition which is bolder and stronger than the original. Picked up this baby at Costco at about $7. Not bad considering it's a 750ml bottle with great taste, body, and 8.2% alcohol content.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Hold Your Glass High, Its National Beer Day!
Today, April 7 is National Beer Holiday. This unofficial holiday in the United States actually has some meaning behind it. Lets rewind back to the prohibition era when President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Cullen-Harrison Act on March 23, 1933. That law was enacted on April 7th allowing the brewing and sale of beer in the United States, just as long as it was <3.2% (4% ABV).
Commemorating one of the first major steps towards ending prohibition in the 1930s when beer could be legally purchased for the first time in 13 years. On the evening of April 6, thousands and thousands of people lined up outside breweries and taverns, waiting for midnight when they could once again enjoy the sweet taste of beer. As a result, April 7th is known as National Beer Holiday and April 6th is called New Beers Eve.
Beer has grown vastly into becoming a part of a lifestyle. Think about the large variety of beer you see when you go to the grocery store or visiting your local pub. Think about all of the beer commercials aired on television. Think about the rapidly-growing small craft breweries offering or providing a unique take on the classic beverage, for instance Build-A-Beer Brewery. It's a freedom that we're privileged to have, so why not set aside today to celebrate?
Tell all your friends about this glorious holiday, and raise a glass, bottle, can, or mug to the deliciousness that is beer.
Happy National Beer Day, everyone. Stay Thirsty.
Commemorating one of the first major steps towards ending prohibition in the 1930s when beer could be legally purchased for the first time in 13 years. On the evening of April 6, thousands and thousands of people lined up outside breweries and taverns, waiting for midnight when they could once again enjoy the sweet taste of beer. As a result, April 7th is known as National Beer Holiday and April 6th is called New Beers Eve.
Beer has grown vastly into becoming a part of a lifestyle. Think about the large variety of beer you see when you go to the grocery store or visiting your local pub. Think about all of the beer commercials aired on television. Think about the rapidly-growing small craft breweries offering or providing a unique take on the classic beverage, for instance Build-A-Beer Brewery. It's a freedom that we're privileged to have, so why not set aside today to celebrate?
Tell all your friends about this glorious holiday, and raise a glass, bottle, can, or mug to the deliciousness that is beer.
Happy National Beer Day, everyone. Stay Thirsty.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Beer Dispenser from Bottom!
I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this video. It's fast, efficient, and there's no foam!
How it works: You have to use a special cup that has a hole at the bottom. With the hole, there is a magnet that rests on it. When you place the cup onto the dispenser the pressure of the beer pushes the magnet up and once the cup is filled it's ready to drink.
I wouldn't mind owning one of these. The record is 56 beers in one minute.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Nothing Says Beer, Like Baseball!
It’s a warm summer day, the smell of freshly cut grass and watered clay dirt fills the air as fans flood the stadiums to partake in a national pastime. That’s right…it’s opening day for Major League Baseball and what better way to celebrate than with a great game of baseball, good friends , hot dogs, and of course…BEER!
Whether you enjoy baseball, or not who can resist a hot dog and a cold beer with friends? Our local team, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, sure know how to serve beer. Beer lovers can hang out in the right field pavilion, also known as the Budweiser Pavilion, or stroll on over to the Coors Light Backyard BBQ, which is located in the straightaway center.
For all of you Pacifico and Corona fans out there, a must have is The Bomber; 20 fluid ounces of your choice of beer (Pacifico or Corona) in a salt rimmed plastic cup with a lime on the edge. Don’t like your beer looking like a margarita? Why not? Its 20 ounces of magnificent refreshment and who knows…you may learn to LOVE it!
Some may wonder, why buy an overpriced beer and hotdog, when I can watch the game at home, buy a six-pack of beer, an entire package of hotdogs and buns for half the price? THE EXPERIENCE. We want to socialize and feel a sense of belonging that can only be felt by attending a game. Being a part of the rivalry and watching the Angels destroy the MLB’s most hated team, the New York Yankees, just feels so much better when you’re part of the live action with a beer in your hand. Beer at a baseball game gives you a reason to act like a fool, to yell at the umpire for the horrible call he just made, and to find companionship in your comrade seated next to you. Sure, you can have a six-pack of beer at home for half the price, but the experience you receive at the field with your buddies and beer is PRICELESS!
So head on out to an Angel’s baseball game, or any baseball game for that matter and say hello to baseball season and great BEER!
Monday, March 28, 2011
There is nothing like a frosty cold beer!
In the previous post, Samantha discussed why women don’t like beer. Beer is definitely something that is an acquired taste. I, however, love beer. In fact, beer is my drink of choice.
My suggestion to women who are not used to the beer taste is to make sure to start with a hefeweizen or something more fruity like Blue Moon that is generally served with an orange slice. Oh and the most important thing is that the beer has to be ICE COLD! In my opinion, there is a huge difference between a cold beer and an ice-cold beer. Nothing compares to an ice-cold beer!!
I didn’t always enjoy beer and one of the first places I had it was at Islands, a burger restaurant. They serve their beers in a frosty mug so cold that when they pour it inside of the mug, the beer turns into a bit of a slush. I can’t explain how amazing this is, you have to try it for yourself! I highly recommend getting used to the beer taste in this fashion.
I think once women acquire the taste, they will begin enjoying beer with their favorite foods. As far as the perception of beer, I don’t think it is considered an overly manly drink by any means. I think that more women are starting to drink beer so it is less perceived as a masculine drink. When I think masculine, I think Scotch, not beer.
I love beer because there are so many different types with different tastes. There is something for everyone. I love trying different beers made around the world. I feel like it is a way for me to connect and enjoy their culture. Hopefully, more girls give beer a chance because there really is something unique and special about the taste of beer and how it is made.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Why Don't Women Like Beer?
According to MRI+, only 26.1% of women ages 18-49 drink beer.
Here are three reasons why I, a woman of 22, do not choose beer above other beverages:
(1) Taste & Smell - I've never been able to finish a beer after first tasting it. (Granted, I was never really allowed to at the age I sampled them.) I do not find the smell appetizing, nor do I enjoy the flavor in combination with the carbonation.
(2) Alternatives - If I want a cold drink on a hot day, or alongside a slice of pizza, I'll go for a Coke on ice. If I'm celebrating with friends and wish to feel a "buzz," I'll enjoy a shot of tequila (or two, depending on the occasion) or a fruity mixed drink. Furthermore, why would I drink five beers to achieve the same intoxication with only a couple shots, or a really powerful mixed drink?
(3) Perception - I perceive beer to have masculine qualities. Though I don't consider myself to be overtly feminine (what with my taste in movies, rock music, clothing, etc.), I do not wish to associate myself with being "manly" on the occasions during which I drink alcoholic beverages.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Beer
Yup, we love beer. So much that we had to tell the entire world on the internet about it.
What makes a person love beer? There are many answers to that question. Ones we'll surely be covering over the next few months as the many members of the Build-a-Beer team share their thoughts and feelings on that delicious, flavorful goodness we know so well. Some will love it. Some will hate it. At times, things may get downright emotional. You may laugh and cry all at the same time. That's the power of beer. It- eh... I think I'm getting carried away. We'd better leave it at that for now.
More to come soon!
-Chris
What makes a person love beer? There are many answers to that question. Ones we'll surely be covering over the next few months as the many members of the Build-a-Beer team share their thoughts and feelings on that delicious, flavorful goodness we know so well. Some will love it. Some will hate it. At times, things may get downright emotional. You may laugh and cry all at the same time. That's the power of beer. It- eh... I think I'm getting carried away. We'd better leave it at that for now.
More to come soon!
-Chris
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