Happy New Year!

At the end of every year after the holidays have passed, masses of people come up with a list of things they want to accomplish the following year. Known as the New Year’s resolution, it is a list that for most probably goes incomplete or completely ignored. The idea of these lists is great, but there are so many unknown or unexpected factors that make following through difficult. I have decided to take the idea and apply to one thing: beer. I want to focus on three beer-related areas that I can improve on this year.

The first area I want to improve is to be more adventurous when selecting brews to consume. There is always some new beer coming in from one brewer or another. I always say that this or that will be next on my list. However, it rarely ever works that way as my trusted standbys usually find their way into my fridge. To become a better beer consultant, the first thing I need to do is become more willing to try new beers. There is so much that sounds so good that I deprive myself from enjoying by not pulling one six-pack off the shelf as opposed to another.

Another area where I want to improve is broadening my knowledge of the various styles of beer. This would not only benefit me, but the guests who visit my store as well. The more I know, the more that can be shared to help select beers that fit personal tastes. I do not want to give basic information on the different styles; my goal is to know them like I was responsible for creating them, to tell stories unique to each style and give the guest more than they are expecting.

The last area where I would like to improve is learning more about various brewers--to discover the stories behind their existence and what makes them unique. To know more about them will help to know more about their beers. It would also help me in staying up to date on their current projects. As with knowing more about beer styles, improving here would help me to better serve my guests. This year, I want to become a more well-rounded beer consultant to benefit not only myself, but my guests and coworkers. I feel improving in the three previously mentioned areas will help allow me to achieve my goal.

This is my New Year’s beer-solution, what is yours?

Patrick Miller, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Beer Consultant

Follow him on Twitter @abcbeerpatrickm