The style guide

Find your kind of beer.

Beer styles are useful signposts, not rigid rules. Use these six families to understand what is in your glass and where to explore next.

Three illustrated beers ranging from pale to dark

How to taste

Look. Smell. Sip. Savour.

Notice the colour and foam, breathe in the aroma, take a small first sip, then think about sweetness, bitterness, body and finish. There is no wrong answer. Your palate is the point.

Six essentials

A style for every mood

Use the flavour notes and serving cues as a starting point, then follow whatever tastes good to you.

Lager

Clean malt, gentle hops, crisp finish

Serve 4 to 7°C

India Pale Ale

Citrus, tropical fruit, pine, firm bitterness

Serve 7 to 10°C

Amber Ale

Caramel malt, toasted bread, balanced hops

Serve 8 to 11°C

Wheat Beer

Soft grain, citrus, spice, lively carbonation

Serve 5 to 8°C

Sour Beer

Tart fruit, bright acidity, refreshing finish

Serve 6 to 10°C

Stout

Coffee, cocoa, roast, smooth or dry finish

Serve 9 to 13°C

Now match the beer.

See which styles work beautifully with cheese, seafood, spice, barbecue and dessert.

Open the pairing guide