NationStates Jolt Archive

With my 21st b-day coming up, I've decided to treat myself to a beer or two that day. Problem is, I know jack, diddly, and squat about beer. I'm not looking to get plastered, just a little variety in my choice of dinner drinks. Any recommendations for a first-timer?

Where do you live? And you've never had beer?

I would recommend Dogfish Head 90 Minute Imperial India Pale Ale, the finest beer brewed in the western hemisphere. It's like candy. It's brewed in Delaware, but is now available in the Eastern US at the least.

Beer is the quickest, easiest way to get a hangover, period.

Anyways, I'd get one of your cheap, run of the mill, beer (Budweiser, Coors, etc) as the first couple dozen are gonna taste like shit anyways.

Beer, or rather alcohol in general, is incredibly bitter.

So yeah, since you had to wait until 21 I'm guessing you're from the states. Basically, don't buy anything that isn't either imported or a microbrew.

I see you've gone off line, so I'll assume you're USian.

Beers I like:

Magic Hat
Yuengling
Sam Adams
Guinness

Posi has no taste. Posi fails. Posi has small penis.

Beer, or rather alcohol in general, is incredibly bitter.
Not all beer is bitter, nor is all alcohol (or alcoholic drinks). For instance, the whiskey sours I had today were sweet and sour. I had a sample of a cooler yesterday that was deliciously sweet. Amaretto is pretty sweet, sambucca is really sweet (and yummy if you like licorice). Rum isn't usually particularly bitter either. This (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%BBubr%C3%B3wka) vodka isn't at all bitter, in fact, it's most delicious. I've also had some beers that aren't at all bitter... there's this one apricot beer that's really yummy and a little sweet. mmm... now I want beer.

Not all beer is bitter, nor is all alcohol (or alcoholic drinks). For instance, the whiskey sours I had today were sweet and sour. I had a sample of a cooler yesterday that was deliciously sweet. Amaretto is pretty sweet, sambucca is really sweet (and yummy if you like licorice). Rum isn't usually particularly bitter either. This (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C5%BBubr%C3%B3wka) vodka isn't at all bitter, in fact, it's most delicious. I've also had some beers that aren't at all bitter... there's this one apricot beer that's really yummy and a little sweet. mmm... now I want beer.

You're really only saying that from the perspective of having drunk a lot of alcohol.

Shit, I drink a lot - rum isn't "particularly bitter?" Yeah, but it's fucking hard liquor and it will knock the socks off this poor sap. Stop showing off and just recommend a beer already :p

You're really only saying that from the perspective of having drunk a lot of alcohol.

Shit, I drink a lot - rum isn't "particularly bitter?" Yeah, but it's fucking hard liquor and it will knock the socks off this poor sap. Stop showing off and just recommend a beer already :p
Well, I already told the guy that if he's american he shouldn't waste his time or money with anything other than imports or microbrews... so really, get a stella, get a heinekin, get a moosehead... I don't live where he does so I can't recommend local microbrews, but if he tries a variety then he'll probably find something good.

I wouldn't call rum bitter though... it's not particularly pleasant to drink straight, but I don't think it's bitter.

I wouldn't call rum bitter though... it's not particularly pleasant to drink straight, but I don't think it's bitter.

What's a better adjective?

Maybe it's just me, but all liquor really tastes the same - like alcohol. The taste of alcohol really jumps out at me. And if it doesn't, I figure I must be drinking a girl drink, or watered down something or other, or am so drunk that it is time to stop.

Beers on the other hand, have more non-alky flavor... but instead, it's usually more like fermented grain. Like sucking on a rain-soaked moldy log in the Appalachians. I don't really like beer either, I only drink it to get drunk.

none of this I can admit to my drinking friends though. I have to carry on the pretense, like there really is a difference between Smirnov and Stoli, or Coors Lite and Sam Adams. Otherwise I lose credit, see.

What's a better adjective?
It kinda depends on the rum... it's been a while since I've bought myself a bottle, and I generally stick to dark, golden or spiced rums (I can't stand white rum... tastes like nail polish remover smells). If I had some I would definitely take a sip or two and get back to you on the exact flavouring...

Maybe it's just me, but all liquor really tastes the same - like alcohol. The taste of alcohol really jumps out at me. And if it doesn't, I figure I must be drinking a girl drink, or watered down something or other, or am so drunk that it is time to stop.
Nah, liquors taste quite different from one another. For instance, that one vodka I linked is something I would drink straight, even though it's 40%, similarly with Ouzo and Sambucca, but I wouldn't drink smirnoff or rum or tequila straight (well, unless I had the lime and salt lined up). However, even the things I won't drink straight taste differently from one another.
And when you start getting into lower proof alcohols there's an even bigger difference (if you get a decent amaretto it doesn't taste like booze at all... or some bailey's [yum]).

Beers on the other hand, have more non-alky flavor... but instead, it's usually more like fermented grain. Like sucking on a rain-soaked moldy log in the Appalachians. I don't really like beer either, I only drink it to get drunk.
That also depends on the beer, I find. There are some beers where you can taste the alcohol, but there are others when it's definitely just like grains. There are also some beers that taste like what I assume urine tastes like (the American Budweiser, for instance).

none of this I can admit to my drinking friends though. I have to carry on the pretense, like there really is a difference between Smirnov and Stoli, or Coors Lite and Sam Adams. Otherwise I lose credit, see.
Isn't there a wide variety of Sam Adams? I had one once and it was awful...

...but I'm guessing based on all this that you're also american... do you drink many microbrews? If not, I recommend trying some, if you're drinking american beer that's the only good stuff.

With my 21st b-day coming up, I've decided to treat myself to a beer or two that day. Problem is, I know jack, diddly, and squat about beer. I'm not looking to get plastered, just a little variety in my choice of dinner drinks. Any recommendations for a first-timer?

I would highly recommend Sam Adams.

Avoid Miller products at all costs.

Assuming you're in the US, a person in your position trying to choose an import is likely not going to make good choices. Stick with domestics (particularly anything locally brewed) until you get a taste for it.

Cheaper beer is a no go unless you're strapped on cash, and really need to get hammered.

Recommendations: Yuengling, Sam Adams, Guinness.

Once you switchover to liquor...*deep sigh*. Do not pretend you are superman. Pace yourself. Sure, you may look cool chugging that liter of cheap rum in front of your college buddies, but getting into a fight with a wall because it tripped you...not so much.

Beginner's Guide To Beer:

Come to Scotland.
Order a pint of Belhaven Best.
Er...
That's it.

Is it possible to obtain Chimay Bleue wherever you are? If you're going out to a restaurant to eat, forget about it, but it's a damn fine beer.

You're really only saying that from the perspective of having drunk a lot of alcohol.

Shit, I drink a lot - rum isn't "particularly bitter?" Yeah, but it's fucking hard liquor and it will knock the socks off this poor sap. Stop showing off and just recommend a beer already :p

Funnily enough, when I first started drinking, I pretty much skipped over beer (had some at a party, but that was it) and went straight to rum(Captain Morgan's Spiced Rum, to be exact. That's goooood stuff). Now, I do drink beer on occasion, but I'm still a die-hard liquor fan, especially rum and vodka.

As far as beers go, though? Well, I tend to drink cheap beer myself (but then, that's a financial thing. Damn textbooks...) but I've heard good things about Sam Adams, and I've found that imported beers tend to be very good. I've also always wanted to try Red Stripe, not because I've heard it's particularly good, but because those commercials kick ass. :D

to start with my credentials, I work at the place with the largest beer selection on the east coast of the USA as a server, host, and bartender (sunset grill in Boston).
I'll start with a run down of styles (I'll include the major types you are likely to find at your local bar...there are many more than I will include here)
to start, the major two groups are lager and ale. Ales are top fermented and warm fermented. These will have a more sweet, full body
Lager will be bottom, cold fermented, with a crisper taste.
Lambic is brewed with fruit
These all break down into many types
Pale ale: bitter, coppor color, meium body, malty flavor.
India Pale Ale (IPA): high alcohol, high bitterness.
Porter: dark, heavy. malty, and bitter
Hefe Weisse: cloudy, sweet aroma, little bitterness
Summer: lemon taste for summer, often served with orange slice
American or Light/Lite/Ice/et.al.: German translates many of these to wasser, or water. The name is accurate. Good to get drunk with, not to taste.


Those are the most common you will find. I personally strongly recommend an IPA, but I like bitterness. If this is your first beer, try a hefeweisse.

depending on your location, these are some I suggest:
Amber/Steam/Pale
Dogfish Head: 60 minute
Flying Dog Doggie Style

IPA
Avery Gold Medal
Boulder Hazed and Confused

Double IPA
Dogfish Head: 90 and 120 minute

Brown
Rogue Hazelnut Nectar

Strong
Allagash Four
Chimay Cinq Cents
Stone Arrogant Bastard

Fruit/Lambic
Ipswich Blueberry

Wheat/Wits
Allagash White
Blue Moon
Flying Dog In Heat

Lager:
Brooklyn Lager
Sam Adams Boston Lager


bolds are some of my favorites.

Beer is the quickest, easiest way to get a hangover, period.
Only if you get drunk.
You can drink and not get drunk.

Well, I already told the guy that if he's american he shouldn't waste his time or money with anything other than imports or microbrews... so really, get a stella, get a heinekin, get a moosehead... I don't live where he does so I can't recommend local microbrews, but if he tries a variety then he'll probably find something good.

I wouldn't call rum bitter though... it's not particularly pleasant to drink straight, but I don't think it's bitter.
Heinekin? Moosehead? You'd be just as well off getting any macrobrew like bud.

Here's a good rule of thumb. Light degrades beer. Anything in a green or clear bottle will be skunked. It isn't worth your tastebuds. Stella, fine. Don't waste your time on moosehead or heinekin
Beer is the quickest, easiest way to get a hangover, period.

Anyways, I'd get one of your cheap, run of the mill, beer (Budweiser, Coors, etc) as the first couple dozen are gonna taste like shit anyways.

Beer, or rather alcohol in general, is incredibly bitter.
You've clearly not had enough beer if you think all of them are bitter. Actually, many are very sweet.
And actually, beer does not give particularly bad hangovers. for a bad hangover, try something very sugary (smirnoff ice, "bitch" drinks, etc) Of course, you could just drink some water and take a B complex vitamin and not have to deal with the hangover
Is it possible to obtain Chimay Bleue wherever you are? If you're going out to a restaurant to eat, forget about it, but it's a damn fine beer.Now here is a person to listen to. If you have the chance, drink a Chimay (any color lable). They make absolutly amazing and delicious beers

Wheat beer. FTW

I really don't recommend beer --- unless you like the taste of metal. To me it is a mix of metal, piss and ice, that leaves an aftertaste like aspirin and bread.

Oddly those other elements can fit into the context of your time drinking.

----
IMO go for the spirits..

if you are drinking to get drunk get something with the words 100 proof etc.. written on it, then mix it with your favorite juice.

Beers alright but it's often to foamy to drink in quantity - leaves your tummy feeling a little full after a 6 or 12 pack.

The good thing about beer is beer bottles - you almost never get drinks in bottles anymore ---...

cans are only good for "festive drinking" like sports events or picnics. You got to save those bottlse for when you'd think it was cool to be holding a gun but your really can't get away with it cause people might not like it... plus it can be thrown - good for events where you know you might run into an artist who just sucks - better than a can for that...


really though I would try ambic honey mead --- not so much a "beer beer" but it might be semi beer.


It's ok but I think if you are drinking to get drunk hard liqour is the way to go.. and if your are drinking for flavour - except in certain meals (like steak) or other devlish incarnates of the dead animal branch cause your eating rotten flesh you might as well throw in the rotten grain too..

all in all though I would put beer down from juice as I don't drink to get drunk.. and if i did it would be sweet spirits (or strong flavoured stuff... ) nothing too strong like zambuca unless it was used as a mixer.

For Alcohol content I'd probably take a wine cooler over beer though - tastes sooo much better.. you have the alcohol taste but it otherwise tastes good. not that bear tastes bad just that I don't really like the metalic asprinin and piss taste --- maybe I just havn't found the right beer for me.


I thought I'd add just cause you;re 21 doesn't mean you have to start drinking that's like every 13 year old having sex cause it's legal for them.

alcohol can be bad for you ---- but the doctors (likely those who drink) say a glass of wine etc.. a day is good I think it was red wine or was it white. - I'm geussing red.

YOU AMERICANS FAIL! 21 TO DRINK BUT 18 TO JOIN THE ARMY! YOUR SYSTEM IS RETARDED!

</booming god voice>

EDIT: This topic reminds me, I need a Beck's.

I really don't recommend beer --- unless you like the taste of metal. To me it is a mix of metal, piss and ice, that leaves an aftertaste like aspirin and bread.

Oddly those other elements can fit into the context of your time drinking.sounds like you've sampled PBR, Coors, Bud, Busch, Budweiser, Miller, etc.


IMO go for the spirits..

if you are drinking to get drunk get something with the words 100 proof etc.. written on it, then mix it with your favorite juice.

Beers alright but it's often to foamy to drink in quantity - leaves your tummy feeling a little full after a 6 or 12 pack.

The good thing about beer is beer bottles - you almost never get drinks in bottles anymore ---...

cans are only good for "festive drinking" like sports events or picnics. You got to save those bottlse for when you'd think it was cool to be holding a gun but your really can't get away with it cause people might not like it... plus it can be thrown - good for events where you know you might run into an artist who just sucks - better than a can for that...


really though I would try ambic honey mead --- not so much a "beer beer" but it might be semi beer.


It's ok but I think if you are drinking to get drunk hard liqour is the way to go.. and if your are drinking for flavour - except in certain meals (like steak) or other devlish incarnates of the dead animal branch cause your eating rotten flesh you might as well throw in the rotten grain too..

all in all though I would put beer down from juice as I don't drink to get drunk.. and if i did it would be sweet spirits (or strong flavoured stuff... ) nothing too strong like zambuca unless it was used as a mixer.

For Alcohol content I'd probably take a wine cooler over beer though - tastes sooo much better.. you have the alcohol taste but it otherwise tastes good. not that bear tastes bad just that I don't really like the metalic asprinin and piss taste --- maybe I just havn't found the right beer for me.probably haven't. Metallic taste means the beer has gone bad. Aspirin, I assume you mean bitter, which depends on the style (for less bitter, try a Wheat or Belgian). Piss is standard of American Macrobrews. Honestly, beer is as sophisticated as wine: there is literally atleast one type everyone will like: the question is if they will find it.

yeah, yeah. I know, I'm a beer snob. It comes with working with 112 taps, 350 bottles a night and having to deal with people who come in and order a fucking Coors Light. Idiots.

(Jekyll) You've never drank and want to drink a beer. Guinness .. It's a good beer. Do not drink Budweiser, Natural Light, Icehouse, Miller, Coors or Pabst.. and run like hell if you get near a malt liquor .. Bull, Colt 45, Old English, St Ives (do they still make that?). Sam Adams is the only light colored beer here in the states, besides micro brews I'd recommend.

(Hyde) Actually don't drink at all! Why start something that could potentially lead you down the road to alcoholism. If you're white.. believe me .. it's in your freakin blood somewhere. Abstain!

Did I get my Jekyll and Hyde mentality mixed up?

to start with my credentials, I work at the place with the largest beer selection on the east coast of the USA as a server, host, and bartender (sunset grill in Boston).

Well, maybe you can answer this question then. When I was in the Air Force, I had the opportunity to work with the RAF, and they used to bring in cases of John Smith's Best Bitters. You can't get it in the States that I know of, but I'd like to find something as close to it as possible. Any suggestions?

Well, maybe you can answer this question then. When I was in the Air Force, I had the opportunity to work with the RAF, and they used to bring in cases of John Smith's Best Bitters. You can't get it in the States that I know of, but I'd like to find something as close to it as possible. Any suggestions?

I honestly can say I've never tried it. Sadly, if you can't get it in the states, my place of work can't serve it (as we can't get it either).
from what I know of bitters, I would suggest a pale ale...I find the Dogfish head 60 minute to be really good. If you want more hops, Gordons is very good. Or the higher minute dogfish head (90, 120).
If you ever find the John smiths, send me a rack :)
also, try an American Pale Ale:
Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
Saranac Pale Ale
Great Lakes Burning River Pale Ale
Goose Island Honker's Ale
Summit Extra Pale
New River Pale Ale
Rogue Juniper Pale Ale
Boulevard Brewing Company Pale Ale
Anchor Liberty Ale
Tuckerman Brewing Company Pale Ale
edit:
I just grabbed our menu, which has a total catalogue of our offerings. These are the bitters we offer:
Boddingtons, deRankeXX, Hambleton's Toleration, Monty Python's Holy Grail Ale, Old Speckled Hen, Tetleys.

DeRankeXX is rated the highestm by BeerAdvocate, with Monty in 2nd and Hen in 3rd

Dude, I would NEVER start a beginner on any type of India Pale Ale. We're not born loving hops, ya know.

I would pick up some bottles of Warsteiner Premium Verum. It's far too light for champion beer drinkers, but for newbies it's relatively inoffensive. Start there and work your way up to an IPA, if you feel like it.

If you want something special, pickup some Belgian witbiers and orange slices. That's fine drinking for a night of friends and baseball.

Happy birthday.

Beer is the quickest, easiest way to get a hangover, period.

Anyways, I'd get one of your cheap, run of the mill, beer (Budweiser, Coors, etc) as the first couple dozen are gonna taste like shit anyways.

Beer, or rather alcohol in general, is incredibly bitter.alcohol is odorless and tasteless and colourless - where were you during science 101?

If you are dead set on beer you have the choice between lagers which are fizzy fairly tasteless things like bud, stouts which if you are in the US good luck getting anything worthwhile (like guinness draft), ale where every where that makes it makes several and they all taste different (apart from the water bottled stuff like Newcastle brown). I live in Kent in England and we have a real ale festival every year. The only problem is the number of days you need to taste all the different ales in half pints and still "taste" them and be able to walk home after. (Some real ale is quite the strong stuff). Lastly there are bitters which have a stronger taste and are slightly bitter (although not always).

You can also get nasty creamy southern stuff like boddingtons which will have a "good head" on it which is just wrong for a beer.

Then there are ciders. Come to England and visit Devon and insist on a pint of local Scrumpy Jack. Scrumpy is strong and tastes sorta of apples (because it is apples) but local scrumpy in the county it was invented will knock you sideways in one go.

Not content with the different bears you have and black which puts some blackcurrant cordial in your beer (ask for a snake bite and black but give it to someone else as it is 50:50 beer and cider and will knock you silly). Then there is * top for example "I'll have a larger top please" which means I'll have a house larger but top it up with some lemonade so it tastes better. Not to be confused with the shandy which is half beer and half lemonade (soda to you USA guys).

Generally all of the above are "manly" drinks apart from the shandy which you might drink if you were a girly bloke or just finding your feet. It's like beer with training wheels.

As for hangovers. Eat a good meal before drinking and don't go silly and you should be fine. Most of a hangover is the lack of water in your system the next day so drink plenty of water if you do go mad. If you want the hangover to really hurt switch between port and house red wine and drink as fast as you can - you will feel like death for a day or too after.

The big guide to strength is the xx% on the beer and the price. An expensive beer is probably going to taste fresh and crisp while a cheap one (like fosters) is going to taste like it has had metal dissolved in it (no realy it gross when that happens). At 2% to 4% the beer is going to be quite light and you can drink a largish amount. 4.2% to 5% is a bit stronger and probably tastes nice but be careful. 5.1% to 6.5% is some fairly strong beer. Drink half pints and switch to a less strong beer after you have had a few and no longer appreciate the taste. 6.8% to 9.5% this is probably a real ale or a weak wine. Really really only have halves but do have one as it will taste fantastic with massive amounts of flavour to savour if somewhat bitter at first sip. 9.6%+ I have never found a beer that strong. If you find one you must let me know.

If you are going to mix beer + something do it with a low percentage beer which has more sugar in it to start with the stronger ones will taste very odd mixed.

If you are really lost - find a bar (take your ID and some cash). The bar should be relatively empty but have a lot of taps. Ideally you want a middle aged male serving at the bar or a competent looking young lady (or bloke but the lasses are more sympathetic on the whole as are the older gents but I have no idea why this is). It should not be part of a large corporate chain as the staff are often seasonal and you are looking for experienced staff. A less fashionable local is good (but check reputation first)

Pop yourself down at the bar stall and when asked what you want say "I have no idea actually - I've come to find out what ll the fuss is about. What's popular?"

You can also try "what do you recommend?" which has the same effect.

You have no asked the bar person about his/her specialist subject so pay attention. Order halves so you can try more tastes (they may also let you taste some if it is very slow but let them suggest that).

Make sure to mention your birthday as the advice and attention will flow more readily as will the free samples.

I just grabbed our menu, which has a total catalogue of our offerings. These are the bitters we offer:
Boddingtons, deRankeXX, Hambleton's Toleration, Monty Python's Holy Grail Ale, Old Speckled Hen, Tetleys.
One of my all-time favourite ales.

Damn tasty.

If you ever get the chance to drink in Britain, get your tastebuds round some:

Deucher's IPA
London Pride
Theakston's Old Peculiar
Belhaven Best
McEwan's 80/- (or simply 'heavy' in Scottish pubs)
Cairngorm Wildcat
Hobgoblin
Caledonian 80/-

I had the opportunity to work with the RAF, and they used to bring in cases of John Smith's Best Bitters.
John Smith's is nice; nothing special, but even trendy bars who don't care about ales will probably have it

Verry funny adverts too (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpHShPqF-uY).

Beer is the quickest, easiest way to get a hangover, period.
Naw, that'll be Laphroaig (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laphroaig). Believe me.

Did I get my Jekyll and Hyde mentality mixed up?

Yep. :p Although really, Dr. Jeckyl was into ingesting dangerous substances as much as anyone. :)

Hobgoblin
Goliath
Desperados (It has Tequila in it, woo!)
Guiness
Corona

Beginner's Guide To Beer:

Come to Scotland.
Order a pint of Belhaven Best.
Er...
That's it.

And when you're a pro you might even drink that beer.:p

I think Beer is an acquired taste. If this is your first time, I recommend Strongbow instead. Works the same, so you can play around with the quantities, but it's a lot easier on the tastebuds for a newbie.

Also, I had Corona the other week...:eek: Worst. "Beer". Ever.

Also, I had Corona the other week...:eek: Worst. "Beer". Ever.

Tastes pretty good when the choice is between it and explosive diarrhea. :p

Also, with tacos. Not sure why, exactly. :)

I would recommend Dogfish Head 90 Minute Imperial India Pale Ale, the finest beer brewed in the western hemisphere. It's like candy. It's brewed in Delaware, but is now available in the Eastern US at the least.

That is a fantastic beer, but not one I'd recommend to a new beer drinker. The hops might overpower him a bit :) I'd recommend their regular IPA as a first ale, then work up to the 90 minute.

I think Beer is an acquired taste. If this is your first time, I recommend Strongbow instead. Works the same, so you can play around with the quantities, but it's a lot easier on the tastebuds for a newbie.

Also, I had Corona the other week...:eek: Worst. "Beer". Ever.

Loser.:D

Corona is the tits for me. Not liking lager all that much (far too gassy), stuff like Corona is better tasting.

And when you're a pro you might even drink that beer.:p
Woah there cowboy!

This ale deserves some serious looking.

Loser.:D

Corona is the tits for me. Not liking lager all that much (far too gassy), stuff like Corona is better tasting.

Um, Corona IS a lager, specifically a Vienna style lager, though largely watered down from the orginal German recipe.

Um, Corona IS a lager, specifically a Vienna style lager, though largely watered down from the orginal German recipe.


Not Stella type lager though. God I hate Stella Artois.

Nobody should know that much about the history of beer anyway; proper drinking habits would soon wash away such knowledge.;)

Woah there cowboy!

This ale deserves some serious looking.You don't look with your mouth?:eek::p

Screw beer. Score some E's and go dancing.

how on earth have you managed to not sample beer already?? anyway, sam smith's oatmeal stout is rather good. as far as (good) beers available in the US go that's all i know of. Jamaica's Red Stripe brewery do a great stout called Dragon Stout. If you can get British beers try Well's Bombardier, Wychwood's Hobgoblin, Fraoch Heather Ale, Theakston's XB, Deuchar's IPA, Theakston's Old Peculier. they're all good.

and there's some great whiskey infused beers available too, i just can't remember the names of any.

and how could i forget McEwan's 80/-, that was my tipple of choice for quite a while.

and there's Dark Island from the Orkney Brewery, that stuff's yummerz.

Since the questions have been raised:
1) I live in central Texas.
2) No, I'm a teetotaler, I've just never had the inclination to risk underage drinking. Loss of job over alcohol != a good trade.

Beer is one of the most delicious beverages known to man if you understand two things: 1) American domestics do not adhere to strict brewing laws as do beers from Germany (and therefore taste "cheap"), and 2) you must appreciate the flavors of any beer, especially the quality of the hops, which gives beer its distinctive bitter taste. Depending on your background, if you want to become a professional alcoholic, try some of these brews (I apologize in advance for any misspellings): Pilsner Urquell, Warsteiner, Grolsch Amber (much, much better than traditional Grolsch), Franzenkanner, Spaten (especially Oktoberfest), Bitburger, Lowenbrau, and any beer that is Heffenweiss or weiss. Not only do these beers taste more sophisticated than your standard domestic, but they are much more likely to knock your socks off.

YOU AMERICANS FAIL! 21 TO DRINK BUT 18 TO JOIN THE ARMY! YOUR SYSTEM IS RETARDED!

</booming god voice>

EDIT: This topic reminds me, I need a Beck's.

Yes, I know the system is screwed. I didn't make rules, I just have to follow them. Now, if you have some useful to contribute to the conversation, please continue.

Since the questions have been raised:
1) I live in central Texas.
2) No, I'm a teetotaler, I've just never had the inclination to risk underage drinking. Loss of job over alcohol != a good trade.

Perfectly good trade. Get yourself a fake ID, or just find a pub/club that doesn't ask, and let the good times roll:cool:

I always use RateBeer.com (http://www.ratebeer.com/) for these kinds of situations.

Personally, I like Hertog Jan, Kwak, Palm, Westmalle, Corona, Guinness and Leffe.

Reminds me, I legally drank when I was 16.

Heinekin? Moosehead? You'd be just as well off getting any macrobrew like bud.

Here's a good rule of thumb. Light degrades beer. Anything in a green or clear bottle will be skunked. It isn't worth your tastebuds. Stella, fine. Don't waste your time on moosehead or heinekin
Stella's in a green bottle too, you know. Beers in green bottles only get skunky if they've been sitting around for a while. And both Heinekin and Moosehead taste much better than bud.

If you have attained the age of 21 and never had a drink, you are in very serious danger of being an utter muppet. A few beers isn't going to fix that.

If you really can't break this "I must follow the rules and be good" thing ... consider becoming a Mormon. It will be more fun than where you're headed now, drinking beer because you can and you are somehow expected to, and dreadfully concerned that you might drink beer which isn't the best possible beer.

So here's my idea. Get yourself a cheap porno video ($5 bin at your nearest porn shop), give it a quick scan through. There are probably 2-5 characters in it. Make a careful note of how they dress, then roll a dice, and however that comes up, that's how you will dress for your 21st.

So, you may have to be naked for your 21st. Get used to it, plan around that.

... wait. PLeaase tell me your parents aren't paying for and planning your twenty-first. If I need to explain why that is wrong, then I'm wasting my breath here.

With my 21st b-day coming up, I've decided to treat myself to a beer or two that day. Problem is, I know jack, diddly, and squat about beer. I'm not looking to get plastered, just a little variety in my choice of dinner drinks. Any recommendations for a first-timer?

I don't like drinking beer while eating meals, you are better off with a soft drink.

The best stuff is Eastern European, particularly Czech beer (Staropramen is my particular favourite). Also, drink Guinness. The worst thing about drinking beer is how bloated and gassy it makes you feel: with Guinness, however, that isn't a problem and so you can drink alot more of it before you start feeling ill.

Don't touch Budweiser, Fosters, Carling, Stella Artois, etc. They are cheap for a reason.

That is a fantastic beer, but not one I'd recommend to a new beer drinker. The hops might overpower him a bit :) I'd recommend their regular IPA as a first ale, then work up to the 90 minute.

Yeah, half the time I forget that I didn't start drinking good beer at 21, rather at, like, 17.

yeah, yeah. I know, I'm a beer snob. It comes with working with 112 taps, 350 bottles a night and having to deal with people who come in and order a fucking Coors Light. Idiots.

:eek: Idiot does not even begin. Ya'll need a shotgun to put folks like that out of our misery.

There are people here who suggested Corona? My god! No tastes at all!

Since the questions have been raised:
1) I live in central Texas.
2) No, I'm a teetotaler, I've just never had the inclination to risk underage drinking. Loss of job over alcohol != a good trade.

Dude - you are near a great brewery! Try Shiner's Bock and Hefeweizen! *And thank Kosmos Spoetzl and his Bavarian recipe when you do.) Get thee to thine shrine. (http://www.shiner.com/about/info.html)

There are people here who suggested Corona? My god! No tastes at all!

Getta rope. :<

Not Stella type lager though. God I hate Stella Artois.

Nobody should know that much about the history of beer anyway; proper drinking habits would soon wash away such knowledge.;)

I'm a brewer, it's part of the hobby to know about beer history and styles ;)

Stella's in a green bottle too, you know. Beers in green bottles only get skunky if they've been sitting around for a while. And both Heinekin and Moosehead taste much better than bud.

I've honestly never seen a stella bottle...only see it on tap around here.

Heinekin is notorious for being skunked in the US...so much so that when they released the keg can, Americans complaned that it didn't taste "right" because it wasn't skunked like the green bottles. The shipment time is far too long for beer to survive in anything but amber. Yeah, they taste better than bud, and they're a good "beach" beer (light taste, crisp, great served as cold as you can), but they still have no hops at all

Since you live in Texas you should probably drink Shiner Bock on general principle. I remember it being pretty good, but I may have just been thirsty.
If you can't get it for some reason then find the liquor store with the best selection and pick out a bunch of different bottles with interesting labels. Avoid anything that you've seen advertised on TV. Look for multi-packs of different beers from the same brewery. You will probably find at least one that turns your taste buds on to beer. After you drink a bunch of crazy beers you'll be able to handle whatever type of beer somebody offers you. This is a valuable skill, especially in Texas I imagine. You don't want to get shot for turning down a Coors and asking for a wine cooler.

I've honestly never seen a stella bottle...only see it on tap around here.
Ok... well, if you want proof, http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v111/14/92/72602851/n72602851_34159583_2460.jpg some of my friends at a bar posing next to a pile of stella bottles.

Heinekin is notorious for being skunked in the US...so much so that when they released the keg can, Americans complaned that it didn't taste "right" because it wasn't skunked like the green bottles. The shipment time is far too long for beer to survive in anything but amber.
I've never had that problem here... I'll get heinekin on tap and in a bottle and it tastes fine either way. I pretty much only get it if the selection of beer is fairly generic though, usually I go with microbrews or moosehead (I like moosehead).

Yeah, they taste better than bud, and they're a good "beach" beer (light taste, crisp, great served as cold as you can), but they still have no hops at all
Yeah, but sometimes a light taste is nice. I didn't recommend any heavier beers because the ones I really, really like are generally local so recommending them would be of no use (or in some cases I don't know the full name and just know it by the tap shape and the brewery).

If it's your first beer I'd go for something German, due to German purity laws it contains no chemicals, I've always found that chemical beer makes me feel like crap the next day, either that or the excessive quantity :D

Guiness, Boulevard if you live near Kansas City, Samuel Adams.

You should also try some whiskey man! Whiskey is amazing.

With my 21st b-day coming up, I've decided to treat myself to a beer or two that day. Problem is, I know jack, diddly, and squat about beer. I'm not looking to get plastered, just a little variety in my choice of dinner drinks. Any recommendations for a first-timer?

Anything not American. US beer tastes like horse piss(or what I imagine horse piss may taste like). Chinese beer isn't bad.

With my 21st b-day coming up, I've decided to treat myself to a beer or two that day. Problem is, I know jack, diddly, and squat about beer. I'm not looking to get plastered, just a little variety in my choice of dinner drinks. Any recommendations for a first-timer?

Corona with lime is pleasant, especially with something very rich and cheesy.

Corona with lime is pleasant, especially with something very rich and cheesy.
Quite possibly.. cheese?

Since the questions have been raised:
1) I live in central Texas.
2) No, I'm a teetotaler, I've just never had the inclination to risk underage drinking. Loss of job over alcohol != a good trade.

No kidding? I'm from the Austin area myself. I know lot of the beers that have been suggested here (including the Chimay Rouge, but not Bleue) are served at the Alamo Drafthouse if you're near one and want to make it dinner + movie + beers.

Some other recommendations I like in here... Post Texas mentioned Leffe, which is one of my preferred pale ales, and Volyakovsky mentioned Czech beers, most all of which are good, my favorite being Velkopopovicky Kozel.

I'm not a beer expert by any means. I actually rarely drink beer, which is why I prefer to drink a good one when I do. Most of the ones I'm talking about probably aren't too much of an acquired taste for a new drinker. ;)

http://img.radio.cz/pictures/beer/budvar_beer.jpg

End of.

Ok... well, if you want proof, http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v111/14/92/72602851/n72602851_34159583_2460.jpg some of my friends at a bar posing next to a pile of stella bottles. hmm...interesting.


I've never had that problem here... I'll get heinekin on tap and in a bottle and it tastes fine either way. I pretty much only get it if the selection of beer is fairly generic though, usually I go with microbrews or moosehead (I like moosehead). *shrug* different strokes. I tend to like a bit of a heavier, stronger beer than either make, although, I will give atleast moosehead credit for being better than average for its style


Yeah, but sometimes a light taste is nice. I didn't recommend any heavier beers because the ones I really, really like are generally local so recommending them would be of no use (or in some cases I don't know the full name and just know it by the tap shape and the brewery).
light taste can definatly be nice...like I said, I consider those to be "beach" beers...something for a 90 degree day, laying back in the sand or at a bbq.

Anything not American. US beer tastes like horse piss(or what I imagine horse piss may taste like). Chinese beer isn't bad.
You're joking, right? Washington State alone has 70-some breweries that distribute, not including the number of brewpubs. New England/Northeast has a similar number. Pass off bud and the like, but to say America has nothing worth drinking is a bit inane.

You're joking, right? Washington State alone has 70-some breweries that distribute, not including the number of brewpubs. New England/Northeast has a similar number. Pass off bud and the like, but to say America has nothing worth drinking is a bit inane.

if there is drinkable American beer out there, I haven't found it.

Um, Corona IS a lager, specifically a Vienna style lager, though largely watered down from the orginal German recipe.
You can say that again. I was actually wondering whether something was wrong with it.

With my 21st b-day coming up, I've decided to treat myself to a beer or two that day. Problem is, I know jack, diddly, and squat about beer. I'm not looking to get plastered, just a little variety in my choice of dinner drinks. Any recommendations for a first-timer?

Unless you want something exotic I would recommend Miller. Good flavor basic beer.

Coors is really watery, so a lot of first timers and kids go for it because they really don't like beer.

Budweiser has a really bad aftertaste. I wouldn't try it until you decide if you like beer.

Basic Sam Adams is the worst of the commonly available beers. They have a variety but after trying the basic I don't think you would ever drink beer again.

So many of the old basics are gone, Hamm's used to be the best German style but it got bought out and I don't think they make it anymore.

The best beers today are from small micro-breweries. But they really vary and you would need to try many varieties till you found a good one.

If you're looking for a cheap drunk, go for Colt 45. Lot's of extra alcohol with tolerable taste.

if there is drinkable American beer out there, I haven't found it.

What style are you looking for? Here are some good American breweries

Yeungling
Sam Adams
Avery
Magic Hat
Pete's Wicked
Red Hook
Harpoon
Otter Creek
Fat Tire
Boulder Beer
Dogfish Head
Flying Dog
Long Trail
River Horse
Saranac
Smuttynose

These are all (well, except Yeungling) available in New England, many are nation wide. I bolded my favorite breweries, and each offers atleast a sample pack of beer.

Try Bass Ale or Harp. Good smooth beers with flavor and no pretentious BS involved.

I'd recommend you stay away from the dark beers, the beers that have more hops than a frog and fruity beers. That is unless you want something manly to drink. Then by all means have a Black and Tan or twelve.

With my 21st b-day coming up, I've decided to treat myself to a beer or two that day. Problem is, I know jack, diddly, and squat about beer. I'm not looking to get plastered, just a little variety in my choice of dinner drinks. Any recommendations for a first-timer?

Here's a primer.

Beer tastes like assholes and baking soda. Christians had to threaten to set fire to pagans to get them to switch from beer to mead. And that was before beer was made with hops, which makes it so unpleasantly bitter.

If you're going to drink it, drink it with something really spicy, like buffalo wings. That's why so many bars have "10 cent wings" nights. People drink more beer when the buffalo wings cover up the taste of the beer and the beer washes away the buffalo sauce.

If you're looking for an education on variety in dinner drinks, go here.
http://tv.winelibrary.com/

Try Bass Ale or Harp. Good smooth beers with flavor and no pretentious BS involved.

Two excellent choices. :)

These are all (well, except Yeungling) available in New England, many are nation wide. I bolded my favorite breweries, and each offers atleast a sample pack of beer.

What? Yeungling was made in PA, and I buy it all the time in Jersey. Can't imagine why it wouldn't sell a little further north. :)

What? Yeungling was made in PA, and I buy it all the time in Jersey. Can't imagine why it wouldn't sell a little further north. :)

New York is as far as they distribute. Depressing, isn't it?

What style are you looking for? Here are some good American breweries

Yeungling
Sam Adams
Avery
Magic Hat
Pete's Wicked
Red Hook
Harpoon
Otter Creek
Fat Tire
Boulder Beer
Dogfish Head
Flying Dog
Long Trail
River Horse
Saranac
Smuttynose

These are all (well, except Yeungling) available in New England, many are nation wide. I bolded my favorite breweries, and each offers atleast a sample pack of beer.

Where the hell is Iron City?

What? Yeungling was made in PA, and I buy it all the time in Jersey. Can't imagine why it wouldn't sell a little further north. :)

You'd be surprised at how rare Yuengling can be.. :(

Well, not for me, of course, because, after all, same county and such..

if there is drinkable American beer out there, I haven't found it.
Apparently microbrews are good there.

I say apparently because I've never lived there and haven't actively searched for some microbrews while there (I'm usually in the states with family so drinking isn't a priority).

You'd be surprised at how rare Yuengling can be.. :(

Well, not for me, of course, because, after all, same county and such..

Horrifying, I went to Juniata College. I don't think it's the same county, but it's only an hour or so from Pottsville.

Where the hell is Iron City?

He said 'good' American breweries. Trust me, I live in Pittsburgh, Iron City doesn't belong on that list. :gundge:

With my 21st b-day coming up, I've decided to treat myself to a beer or two that day. Problem is, I know jack, diddly, and squat about beer. I'm not looking to get plastered, just a little variety in my choice of dinner drinks. Any recommendations for a first-timer?

What I'd recommend is dark beer.It's better tasting than blond,especially for the first time.Although it has a bit more alcohol in it.

Knotthole Glade;12938949']What I'd recommend is dark beer.It's better tasting than blond,especially for the first time.Although it has a bit more alcohol in it.

The color of beer has little bearing on the alcohol content.