Beer Discussion Thread

[Chris]

Am I the only one that chooses a beer based on its ABV %? Generally the higher the ABV the better, is that normal?

I find with lager around 5% is the sweet spot for flavour, other than that, no.

When I worked in pubs anyone asking for a pint of "whichever's strongest" got asked for ID.

 

[bagman]

Am I the only one that chooses a beer based on its ABV %? Generally the higher the ABV the better, is that normal?

That used to oven be the case, lower alcohol beer often had less taste but these days some of my favourite brews are less than 4%
I am very lucky to have 3 excellent small breweries “local” to me in Kent. Cellar Head, Gouchers and Musket, all produce superb session beers with loads of flavour

 

[TobyC]

Am I the only one that chooses a beer based on its ABV %? Generally the higher the ABV the better, is that normal?

Pretty sure that makes you an alcoholic.

 

[Twelvefret]

Am I the only one that chooses a beer based on its ABV %? Generally the higher the ABV the better, is that normal?

No, you are not alone. I do the same. I enjoy Serria Navada Pale Ale @ 5.0 ABV now days.

 

[R181]

An AVB of 5.0 is about average for beer in Canada. There are of course beers with more or less AVB also.

Bob

 

[Twelvefret]

5 seems to be the standard across the industry.

 

[Smiffy]

Must admit that I like a lower alcohol beer, mainly because I like a beer along with food.

Black Sheep Ale is 4.4% with a rich malty flavour, a favourite of mine.

 

[Twelvefret]

I might have mentioned earlier that I have tried low AVB pale ales. Compared to the SN Pale Ale, they now taste terrible. There must be something magical about achieving a good hoppy taste @ 5AVB. Not many have taken the time or know it's not going to provide a good ROI. From what I have read, the SN Pale Ale was the first and they got it right. Nice thick head which speaks to good carbonation from what I have read. This really brings out the notes.

 

[HardLight]

I have a knack for 9-10%’ers. They hit on all cylinders for me. It’s not to get trashed, strictly for enjoyment.

Duvel for example. If you let it breathe for a few, it’s pretty smooth and delightful. You wouldn’t know it’s a 10% till it’s too late, already doing the armpit fart thing and carrying on.

But, higher percentage of ABV doesn’t always mean better. For example, Parks Perminator, it’s somewhere over 10%, taste is kind of repulsive. If you’re drinking that, there’s a reason. I’m not even sure they still make it?

Another, Avery Brewing in Colorado, Samael it’s 16%. IMO, that’s no longer a beer. I couldn’t drink it like one. They make some potent brew.

I haven’t been drunk for a few years. Matter of fact, I had my first beer this past weekend, it’s been months. New Belgium Trippel, tasty.

 

[efsk]

around 8% often delivers. 10+ does not do it for me, they just don't taste good. Lower than 8 IPA's these days are only sweet and are missing the touch of bitter that I search for in beer.
edit: numbers mentioned are ABV.

 

[Pedigree]

I just bite the bullet when it comes to swallowing bitter beers, lol

 

[Twelvefret]

There was a time when I didn’t care for the usually IPA taste.

I enjoy Sam Adams lagers and ales and particularly their seasonal offerings.

Hazelnut Nectar by Rogue is a delicious ale and around 5 %

 

[Twelvefret]

I am enjoying a Sam Adams Octoberfest today.

 

[Northam Saint]

I am down to one beer or cider a week as a Saturday treat ! With the meds I am on I can drink but not too much. So I look forward to that drink.

 

[Nishy]

Tried this at the beer festival just as I was curious turned out to be quite nice no hint of cockles. Alcohol got the better of me so I didn't get the name!