I don’t really like beer
How many times have you heard, "I don’t like beer," at the pub? Maybe you’ve even said it yourself. If the idea of beer conjures up visions of generic lagers, a pint of something flat, warm and brown, or a bitter attack on your taste buds, you’re not alone. For years, beer has had a reputation as a one-note drink. But here’s the thing: beer is one of the most diverse and versatile drinks in the world. And chances are, there’s a style - or even just one perfect pint - out there for you.
At The Tap Inn*, we’ve made it our mission to help beer skeptics discover that beer can be so much more. But before we dive into how we can help you, let’s start with a brief journey through beer’s story and its incredible variety.
How did we get here: beer’s storied history
Beer has been around for more than 5,000 years. It started as a humble drink made from fermented grains in ancient Mesopotamia, and evolved through the ages into something that spans continents and cultures. From hearty German lagers to complex Belgian ales, and from the hop-forward creations of American craft breweries to the subtle elegance of Japanese rice beers, the world of beer has exploded with possibilities. (We even make a some decent ones in the UK!)
Fast forward to today’s craft beer movement, and you’ll find a mind-boggling array of styles, flavours, and brewing techniques. This renaissance has turned beer into a drink that caters to nearly every palate. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a cider lover, or just someone looking to try something different, there’s a beer for you.
The main beer styles: something for everyone
Let’s start with the basics: beer styles. While there are countless variations, most beers fall into two broad families: lagers and ales.
Lagers
Lagers are fermented at cooler temperatures over a longer period, which gives them a crisp and clean profile. Think of the golden pilsners of Germany or the malty richness of a dark bock. These beers are approachable and refreshing, perfect for someone new to beer.
Ales
Ales are fermented at warmer temperatures, which allows for more complex and diverse flavors. This is where creativity thrives, with styles like IPAs (India Pale Ales), stouts, porters, and sours.
Ciders
Okay, technically not a beer, but often part of the same conversation! Ciders offer a fruity, crisp alternative for those who want something lighter or sweeter (although check the label, as they can be quite punchy in strength!).
Of course this is just the start - within each category, there are dozens of substyles that bring their own unique personality to the table.
What makes beer so diverse?
It’s all about the ingredients, brewing processes, and the creativity of the brewers. Here are just a few factors that create the incredible range in beer:
Ingredients
Flavour profiles
Think beer is just bitter? Think again. Beers can be sweet, sour, smoky, salty, or even spicy. Imagine sipping a creamy milk stout that tastes like a chocolate milkshake, or a sour beer bursting with tropical passionfruit.
Regional variations
Where a beer comes from often influences its style. Belgian beers might focus on fruity yeast flavors, while American craft beers lean on bold hops. German lagers are all about balance and precision, while traditional English ales offer rich malty warmth.
Brewing processes
From barrel-aging (imagine the oaky notes of whiskey barrels) to wild fermentation (producing tart, funky sours), the way beer is brewed or stored can dramatically change its character.
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Strength
Beer isn’t just 'weak lager or heavy ale'. You’ll find everything from light, no- or low-alcohol session beers to bold imperial stouts with an indulgent boozy kick.
With so much variety, it’s no wonder beer has something to offer nearly everyone. But with all these options, it can be hard to know where to start.
Finding your style: it’s all about exploration
Finding a beer you love is like finding a favourite dish - you may need to try a few to see what works for you. Not sure where to start? Here’s a handy cheat sheet:
It’s okay to not love every beer you try - it’s all part of the fun. And once you discover a style or flavour you like, you’ll find plenty of beers to explore within that category.
If in doubt, ask an expert
At The Tap Inn, we believe exploring beer should be fun and approachable. That’s why our team is here to help. Whether you’re stepping into one of our bars in Maidenhead or Windsor, or browsing our online shop, you’ll find knowledgeable, friendly staff who are passionate about helping you discover your perfect beer.
Why choose The Tap Inn?
Continue your journey once you get home
Once you’ve found your style, why stop there? The Tap Inn makes it easy to continue your beer journey at home.
Our in-store and online bottle shop
Browse our curated selection of beers from local and international breweries. From classic IPAs to experimental sours, you’ll find something to excite your taste buds. You can even grab something to go from our fridges.
Monthly beer boxes
Want a regular surprise? Our monthly beer boxes can be tailored to your preferences, making it the perfect way to discover new styles and flavours.
All we are saying, is give beer a chance
You might not like beer... yet. But with so many styles to explore and a team that’s passionate about helping you find your match, there’s never been a better time to give it another try.
Next time you’re in the area, why not pop into The Tap Inn Maidenhead or Windsor and say hello? Or start your journey from the comfort of home with our online shop and beer boxes. Who knows? You might just find your next favourite drink.
Cheers! Duncan (on behalf of the fictionalised Tap Inn team)
Ready to explore? Visit us in-store, browse our online shop, or reach out for a recommendation - we’re always happy to help.
*This article was generated with the help of ChatGPT as part of my #100daysofAI training. The brief was to generate an SEO-optimised blog post, and I based it on a local craft beer bar. While I used a genuine (and fab) bar as my inspiration, this was neither commissioned nor authorised by the bar in any way, so I have changed the name. If you are local then you can probably work out who they are, and I thoroughly recommend a visit!!!