Draft beer, bottle or can?
It's important to remember that beer isn't just a drink, it's a real ritual! And in Switzerland, we know it well. When we talk about beer, we can't help but think of big outdoor parties, convivial aperitifs and evenings by the lake. It is in these moments that beer takes on its full meaning.
1. The beer experience: bottle vs can vs draft
a. Bottle of beer: from classicism to authenticity
The bottle of beer is a bit like the grandmother of beer. It's traditional, it's authentic and it has a certain charm. But be careful, don't underestimate her! She has her qualities.
The aromas are well preserved and the taste is often more intense. But like my grandmother, she doesn't really like the sun… UV rays aren't good for her.
b. Can of beer: practical, ecological and surprisingly good
The can is the modern and trendy version. It is practical to transport, it recycles well and it perfectly protects the beer from UV and oxygen.
Yes, it's a small aluminum fortress for your beer. It's a bit like a secret box for your favorite drink. And, surprise, surprise, it also keeps the flavors very well. A great choice for beer adventurers!
c. Draft beer: pure pleasure
And there we come to the creme de la creme, the holy grail of beer: draft. When you see her coming, you can't help but salivate. The noise, the bubbles, the foam, everything is perfect. It is served chilled, in a suitable glass with the right amount of gas. But be careful, the pressure is like fireworks, it doesn't last long, you have to drink it quickly!
2. Why does draft beer taste better?
It is quite common to hear that draft beer tastes superior. But do you know why? Well, temperature plays a major role.
In general, draft beer is served very cold, often around 3-4 degrees Celsius. At this temperature, the cold tends to mask certain less pleasant flavors and aromas present in many industrial beers. So if you're relishing a chilled pint at the pub, chances are the cold helps disguise some of the beer's imperfections.
That said, that's not always a good thing. For some premium beers, especially craft beers, serving the beer too cold can actually hurt the tasting experience.
Indeed, extreme cold can mask the complexity and depth of beer aromas. So a quality craft beer could be unfairly reduced to just a cold, tasteless drink if served too ice cold.
So the next time you're enjoying a beer on tap and wondering why it tastes so good, remember that maybe it's the cold that does the magic! And if you really want to appreciate the full range of flavors of a good beer, don't hesitate to let it warm up a bit. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you discover!
3. Why is it always better to drink beer from a glass?
Let it be said, there is one thing that brings these three tasting experiences together: the beer glass. Whether your beer comes from a bottle, can or draft, it deserves to be enjoyed in a glass. For what? Because the glass allows the aromas to unfold, the beer to breathe and you to fully enjoy its color and its effervescence. And don't forget, the first taste is with the eyes!
Conclusion: The beer glass!
So whether you're a bottle fan, a can addict or a draft lover, remember that your beer deserves the best. And the best is the glass. Because, let's be honest, nothing beats the pleasure of seeing your beer foam, smelling its aromas and tasting its freshness. So, it's up to you! Open your beer, pour it into a glass and enjoy. And don't forget, no matter how you prefer your beer, the most important thing is to enjoy it and above all...
Stay Brewtiful!