Drinking a cold beer is anyone's idea of paradise, but this deprives the palate of many of the drink's worthwhile nuances. And be careful! Nor should it be heated too much, because we would be subjecting the taste to a terrible sensation. Therefore, it is time to know at what temperature the beer should be served.
Before moving on to the suggestions, it is first important to understand the effects of serving beer at the wrong temperature.
Cold beer can bring out some of its qualities, but also suppress others. Sure, anything cold will be welcome on a hot day, but the most important thing about beer is its flavor, especially if many weeks have been spent perfecting it.
The biggest problem with a chilled beer is the way in which this feature masks some of its flavors and aromas. Cold temperatures slow down the volatilization of aromatic compounds, so they remain in the beverage. As they are not released, the flavor and aroma are altered to the point of being unnoticed by taste and smell.
In any case, the cold accentuates bitterness, dryness and carbonation, which is good for quenching thirst; however, if this is mixed with what is described in the previous paragraph, the drinking experience can be somewhat unpleasant. A very cold beer can also cause haze to appear in a beer that is usually clear.
A warm beer, on the other hand, allows more aromas and flavors to appear; but as it approaches room temperature, the hops and carbonation begin to disappear. And, of course, it goes without saying that no one wants to drink a warm beer.
What are the temperatures at which you can fully appreciate a beer? Unfortunately, there isn't one that applies to everyone, as it depends on the style and brewing process. But with a few basic rules, and the chart below, you can make an informed decision on how to drink your next beer.
- Most beers should be served between 3.3°C and 12°C.
- Lagers go colder than Ales.
- Stronger beers go a little warmer than lighter beers.
- Darker beers go a little warmer than lighter beers.
- Serve it a little colder than recommended so that it adjusts when it comes into contact with the glass and hands.
American Pale Ales and IPAs 7.2 to 10°C
American Stouts and Porters 7.2 to 12°C
American Lagers 0.5 to 4.4°C
Pale Lagers and Pilsners 3.3 to 7.2°C
Wheat beers 4.4 to 10°C