Learn more about best beer for first time drinkers.
For first-time beer drinkers or individuals who haven’t quite developed a taste for it, finding the perfect brew can be a daunting task. With an abundance of options available, it’s essential to explore the different flavors and styles that suit your preferences. Whether you’re after a light, crisp, and refreshing beverage or a smooth and creamy introduction to the world of beer, this article will guide you through the best choices for beginners, ensuring a delightful experience.
A great way to become acquainted with beer is to explore some of the most popular options for newcomers. These beers are usually characterized by their easy-drinking nature, and allow you to get a better understanding of the various flavor profiles without being overwhelmed by bitterness or complex aromas. In fact, some of the most recommended beginner beers include the likes of Corona Extra, a crisp and light Mexican lager, Blue Moon Belgian White, with its subtle orange citrus notes, and Coors Light, known for its refreshing and smooth taste.
As you begin your journey into the world of beer, keep in mind that it’s essential to approach it with an open mind and a sense of curiosity. With so many different styles, flavors, and brewing techniques, there’s sure to be a beer that resonates with your taste buds. Use the suggestions provided in this article as a starting point to explore the wide range of brews that are waiting for you to discover.
Table of Contents
Why Beer for First-Time Drinkers
Misconceptions
First-time drinkers might have certain misconceptions about beer that prevent them from giving it a try. One common myth is that all beers taste the same or are too bitter. However, there’s a wide range of flavors, styles, and profiles in the world of beer. Many beginner-friendly beers have a refreshing taste, and their bitterness is balanced with other flavors.
A key aspect to consider is alcohol content. First-time drinkers may assume that all beers have a high alcohol content, which might deter them from trying beer. The truth is, there are plenty of low ABV (alcohol by volume) options available that are flavorful and easy to drink. Focusing on these ‘lighter’ beers can be a great starting point for those new to the beer-drinking experience.
Perception
The perception of beer varies depending on individual tastes and experiences. It’s essential to recognize that everyone’s palate is different, and what one person finds enjoyable may not suit someone else. Encouraging first-time drinkers to explore various beer styles can help them find the type of beer they may enjoy the most.
When introducing someone to beer, it can be helpful to suggest pairing beer with different meals. A well-matched beer can enhance the flavors of a dish, making the overall dining experience more enjoyable. For example, a light, refreshing beer could complement a salad or seafood dish, while a darker, richer beer might be suitable for heartier dishes like steak or stews.
Remember to keep the drinking experience fun and enjoyable for first-time drinkers without pressuring them to try something they may not be ready for. Giving beginners some guidance and suggestions, while understanding their preferences, can prove instrumental in breaking through previous misconceptions or negative perceptions about beer.
Types and Styles of Beer
There is a vast array of beer types and styles available for those who enjoy the unique and flavorful beverage. It’s crucial to understand the different categories and characteristics of beer to make an informed choice for first-time drinkers. Here are some of the most popular beer styles and their unique features.
Lagers
Lagers are one of the two main types of beer, characterized by their crisp, clean taste and refreshing attributes. They are typically brewed with bottom-fermenting yeast, which produces a light and smooth drink. Common lagers include:
- Pilsner: A popular type of lager, originating from the Czech Republic, known for its bright golden color, sharp bitterness, and herbal hop flavors.
- American Lager: A lighter variation of the traditional lager, with lower alcohol content, minimal hop flavor, and a mild maltiness.
Ales
Ales are the other major type of beer, created using top-fermenting yeast, which generally results in more robust, flavorful, and aromatic brews. Some notable styles of ales include:
- Pale Ale: A balanced beer with a moderate malt base and noticeable hop bitterness, often exhibiting fruity or citrus notes.
- India Pale Ale (IPA): A stronger, hoppier version of the pale ale, delivering bold and often bitter flavor profiles, with varying levels of maltiness.
Stouts
Stouts are a rich and flavorful style of beer, known for their dark color and creamy texture. They often feature roasted malt flavors and may exhibit notes of coffee or chocolate. Guinness Draught is a well-known example of a traditional Irish stout.
Pilsners
Pilsners are a specific type of lager, originating from the Czech Republic, and are generally characterized by their golden color, refreshing taste, and notable hop bitterness. They often showcase a crisp, clean malt profile with herbal or grassy hop aromas.
Porters
Porters are a dark beer style, closely related to stouts, but generally lighter in body and flavor. They are known for their roasted malt characteristics, which can produce flavors resembling chocolate, coffee, or caramel.
In conclusion, understanding the various types and styles of beer will help first-time drinkers make a more informed choice, whether they prefer the crisp and refreshing taste of lagers or the robust and hoppy flavors of ales. Keeping malt and hop profiles in mind will also guide the decision-making process for the perfect beer to suit an individual’s palate.
Best Beers for Beginners
Bud Light
Bud Light is a go-to choice for many first-time beer drinkers due to its light flavor and low alcohol content. It’s a popular American light lager with a crisp and refreshing profile, making it an easy choice for those wanting an introduction to beer without overpowering flavors or high alcohol content.
Blue Moon Belgian White
Blue Moon Belgian White is a popular beginner-friendly beer with a smooth, slightly sweet taste. This Belgian-style wheat beer contains hints of citrus and coriander, making it a flavorful yet easy-to-drink option for newcomers.
Coors Light
A classic American light lager, Coors Light is another excellent beginner beer option. With its mild flavor, low alcohol content, and fewer calories than regular Coors, it’s a suitable entry point for first-time drinkers who prefer something easy to drink.
Corona Extra
Corona Extra is a well-known Mexican lager that offers a light, crisp taste with a subtle citrus flavor. Consumed with a slice of lime, it creates a refreshing beverage that’s easy on the palate for those new to beer.
Guinness Draught
Guinness Draught is often recommended for beginners who prefer a darker beer with hints of coffee and chocolate flavors. Despite its rich appearance, this Irish stout is smooth and has a lower alcohol content than many other beers, making it accessible to first-time drinkers.
Miller High Life
Miller High Life is an American lager known as the “Champagne of Beers” for its light, crisp taste with just the right amount of sweetness. It features a lower alcohol and calorie content compared to many other brands, making it a suitable choice for those easing into the world of beer.
Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is a versatile choice for beginners, offering a well-balanced, hop-forward flavor profile without being overpowering. Its moderate alcohol content and complex taste provide a satisfying introduction to the pale ale style.
Samuel Adams Boston Lager
Samuel Adams Boston Lager is an excellent first step into the world of craft beers. This lager has a flavorful balance of malt and hops, with a medium alcohol content that won’t overwhelm newcomers.
New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale
New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale is a flavorful, easy-drinking beer with a smooth finish. Its amber color and hints of caramel and toffee make it a popular choice for those looking to venture beyond lighter lagers.
Abita Purple Haze Raspberry Lager
Abita Purple Haze Raspberry Lager is a unique, fruity beer featuring raspberry puree added after filtration. Its slight sweetness and subtle fruit flavor make it an appealing choice for first-time drinkers who want to explore different tastes.
Founders Robust Porter
Founders Robust Porter is a rich, dark beer with complex flavors of chocolate and coffee. While it’s a bit heavier than some other options on this list, it’s still an accessible choice for beginners looking to experiment with darker, more robust beers.
Modelo Especial Mexican Lager
Modelo Especial is another Mexican lager with a light, refreshing taste that’s suitable for those just diving into beer. It pairs well with a variety of foods, making it an excellent choice for social gatherings or casual drinking.
Non-Beer Drinkers
Non-beer drinkers can still partake in fun-filled experiences without indulging in overly “beery” beverages. Here are some options that provide great alternatives to traditional beers:
Mocktails
For those who prefer a completely alcohol-free experience, mocktails can offer a wide range of flavors without the booze. These cocktails are made without alcohol but still provide the excitement of trying new and interesting flavor combinations. Some popular mocktails include:
- Virgin Mojito: A refreshing mix of muddled mint leaves, lime, sugar, and soda water.
- Shirley Temple: A sweet concoction made with ginger ale, grenadine, and a maraschino cherry.
- Cucumber Elderflower Fizz: A light and refreshing mix of cucumber, elderflower syrup, and soda water.
Low Alcohol Content Beers
For those who might want a little alcohol in their beverage without getting too intoxicated, low alcohol content beers can be a great option. These beers typically have a lower ABV (alcohol by volume) and offer a milder taste. Some popular low alcohol content beers include:
- Bud Light Lime: A light beer with a crisp lime flavor, sporting an ABV of 4.2%.
- Shock Top Belgian White: A wheat beer with hints of orange and coriander, featuring an ABV of 5.2%. Source
- Michelob Ultra: A light lager with subtle malt and hop flavors, having an ABV of 4.2%.
Beer for First-Time Drinkers
First-time beer drinkers may wish to start with milder and more approachable options. These beers lean toward a more basic flavor profile and are easier to appreciate for those who are not familiar with traditional beer flavors. Some recommendations for first-time beer drinkers include:
- Corona Extra: A very popular and crisp-tasting beer, known for its light flavor. Source
- Sam Adams Boston Lager: A well-known beer with good reputation, offering a balance of malt and hops. Source
- Blue Moon Belgian White: A refreshing wheat beer, infused with hints of orange peel, providing a unique and accessible option for beginners. Source
Tasting Tips and Notes
Landshark
Landshark is an easy-drinking, light lager with a refreshing taste. The flavor profile is simple, making it a great option for first-time beer drinkers. It has a 4.6% alcohol content and pairs well with seafood and beachside barbecues. When trying Landshark, take note of its crisp, clean finish and mild, malty sweetness.
Blue Moon Belgian White with Orange Slice
Blue Moon Belgian White is a popular wheat beer with a hint of citrus. It’s often served with an orange slice to enhance its bright, fruity flavors. With a 5.4% ABV, this beer is smooth and easy to drink. On your first taste, look for notes of orange peel, coriander, and a slightly sweet finish.
Allagash White
Known for its complexity and balance, Allagash White is an excellent choice for new beer drinkers who want to explore a more unique flavor profile. This Belgian-style witbier is brewed with spices and a special yeast strain, resulting in a delightful mix of fruity, spicy, and tart notes. Pay attention to the flavors of lemon, orange, coriander, and cloves when sipping Allagash White. The beer has a 5.1% ABV.
Abita Purple Haze Raspberry Lager
Abita Purple Haze is a fruit-forward lager brewed with raspberries for a refreshing and slightly sweet taste. The raspberry flavor is subtle and well-balanced, making it a fun option for first-time drinkers. At 4.2% ABV, this beer is easily drinkable and enjoyable on a warm day. When tasting Abita Purple Haze, notice the hints of raspberry, malt, and mild hops.
Fat Tire Amber Ale
New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale is an approachable, medium-bodied beer perfect for beginners looking for something with a bit more character. The beer’s toasty malt and mild hop flavors are balanced by a hint of caramel sweetness. With a 5.2% ABV, Fat Tire is a versatile choice that pairs well with a variety of foods. When trying this amber ale, take note of the biscuit-like malt and fruity hop aroma.
Drinking Responsibly
Hydration
When consuming alcohol, it’s important to stay hydrated as alcohol can lead to dehydration. To counter this, try drinking a glass of water or a non-alcoholic beverage in between each alcoholic drink. This will help to not only keep you hydrated but also make it less likely that you’ll experience unpleasant side effects, like a hangover, the following day.
Moderation
Drinking in moderation is key to enjoying alcohol while minimizing the potential negative effects on your body. The general guideline is to limit your alcohol consumption to one drink per hour. This allows your body time to metabolize the alcohol and reduces the likelihood of becoming intoxicated or experiencing negative side effects.
Spacing Out Drinks
As mentioned earlier, spacing out your drinks is crucial for drinking responsibly. This means drinking one alcoholic beverage per hour, allowing your body time to process the alcohol. Doing so will help you maintain a manageable and responsible level of alcohol consumption while still enjoying your night out.
Eating Heavy and Fatty Foods
Consuming heavy and fatty foods before or while drinking can help slow down the absorption of alcohol. Foods that are high in protein and fats, such as nuts and cheese, can help to line the stomach and reduce the rate at which alcohol is absorbed into your bloodstream. This can help you avoid becoming too intoxicated too quickly, as well as lessen the impact on your body.
In conclusion, remember these key points when consuming alcohol for the first time:
- Stay hydrated by consuming water or non-alcoholic beverages throughout the night
- Drink in moderation and space out your drinks to give your body time to process the alcohol
- Eat heavy and fatty foods to slow down the absorption of alcohol into your bloodstream
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your first experience with beer responsibly and have a more pleasant experience overall.
