Beer is the nectar that brings joy and satisfaction to people all over the world. It has been around for hundreds of years. For me, beer had not always been an important staple of my diet. I did not have my first beer until the age of 22 at a British pub in Atlanta. Like some people, I was not a fan of the bitter taste of beer. Through time, and many post-work trips to the local pub, my appreciation for beer and its many styles began to blossom. Having a boss and coworker who were fans of good beer was crucial in that development. My boss hailed from England and therefore knew a thing or two about beer; my coworker was a Guinness aficionado. As such, the first beer on my journey to enlightenment was naturally the pride and joy of Ireland. I instantly fell in love with the heartiness and creaminess of that dark liquid gold.

From there, I started navigating the globe with my taste buds. I discovered Newcastle Brown, Samuel Smith’s Nut Brown and Old Engine Oil. I truly enjoyed the fuller flavors and lower bitterness that I was discovering in these darker beers. Gone was the conception that all beers were created equal. The pilsners of Germany and the Czech Republic drew me to lighter, but equally delicious beers. Pilsner Urquell and the beers of Hofbrau Haus showed me that even light beer was delightful. I loved the array of flavors and aromas that these beers displayed. So similar yet so very different were these beers. I was experiencing the fuller spectrum of wonders that malt, hops, yeast and water could produce.

These days, I enjoy beers of all styles from all corners of the globe. The transformation of my beer palate has been ongoing and will continue as long as new beers are being produced. The understanding that beer is as varied as the people of the world, has led to the discovery that there truly is something for everyone. Ciders are great for those who are introducing themselves to malted delight. Pale Ales, India Pale Ales and Belgian Wheat Ales are perfect summer refreshers. There are a number of other styles, all of which are great by themselves or complementing a great meal. We all love to fall in love with a favorite beer or beer style, but I encourage you to love them all.

Patrick Miller, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Beer Consultant

Follow him on Twitter @abcbeerpatrickm