What is sour beer?
The sourness in sour beers comes from the lactic acid produced by bacteria. There are two main types of bacteria that are used to make sour beers: lactobacillus and pediococcus. Lactobacillus is the most common type of bacteria used to make sour beers, and it produces a tart, sour flavour. Pediococcus is less common, but it produces a more complex flavour that is often described as being funky or earthy.
In addition to lactic acid, sour beers can also contain other acids, such as acetic acid and citric acid. These acids can be produced by bacteria or by adding fruit to the beer. Fruit can also add sweetness to the beer, which helps to balance out the tartness.
Sour beers can be aged in a variety of different vessels, including oak barrels, stainless steel tanks, and even clay pots. The ageing process can last for months or even years, and it can have a significant impact on the flavour of the beer.
What kind of beer is a sour?
Sour beers are a type of beer that has been fermented with bacteria that produce lactic acid. This gives the beer a sour, tart flavour that is often described as being reminiscent of yoghurt, buttermilk, or vinegar. Sour beers can be made from a variety of different base beers, including ales, lagers, and wheat beers. They can also be flavoured with fruits, spices, or herbs. Sour beers are typically low in alcohol content, ranging from 4% to 6% ABV.
Why do people drink sour beer?
There are a few reasons why people drink sour beer. First, sour beer is a refreshing change of pace from the more traditional hoppy beers. Second, sour beer can be very complex and flavorful, with a wide range of different sour and fruity notes. Third, sour beer is often lower in alcohol content than other types of beer, making it a good option for people who are looking for a lighter drink.
How is sour beer different?
Sour beer is different from other beer because it is fermented with bacteria or wild yeast, which gives it a sour taste.
Is BrewDog sour beer?
BrewDog is a brewery that produces a wide variety of beers, including some sour beers. However, not all BrewDog beers are sour.
History of sour beer
Sour beers have a long and storied history that dates back to the Middle Ages. The first sour beers were likely made by accident when wild yeast and bacteria found their way into the brewing process. However, over time, brewers began to intentionally add these microbes to their beers, and sour beers became a popular and sought-after style.
In the 19th century, sour beers began to decline in popularity, as brewers began to favour cleaner, more consistent styles of beer. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in sour beers, and they are now once again a popular and growing segment of the craft beer market.
Types of sour beer
There are many different types of sour beer, each with its own unique flavour profile. Some of the most popular types of sour beers include:
Lambic
Lambic is a traditional Belgian sour beer that is made with a blend of wild yeast and bacteria. Lambics are often aged in oak barrels, which imparts additional flavour and complexity.
Gueuze
Gueuze is a type of lambic that is blended with younger lambics. This blending process creates a more complex and nuanced flavour profile.
Berliner Weisse
Berliner Weisse is a German sour beer that is made with a blend of wheat and barley malts. Berliner Weisses are often soured with lactobacillus, which gives them a tart, refreshing flavour.
Gose
Gose is a German sour beer that is made with wheat malt, salt, and coriander. Goses are often soured with lactobacillus and pediococcus, which gives them a tart, salty, and slightly funky flavour.
Sour IPA
Sour IPAs are a relatively new type of sour beer that combines the tartness of a sour beer with the hoppy bitterness of a Hazy IPA. Sour IPAs are often made with a blend of ale and wild yeasts, and they can be either dry-hopped or fruited.
How to drink sour beer
Sour beers can be enjoyed on their own, or they can be paired with food. Some good food pairings for sour beers include:
Charcuterie
The salty, savoury flavours of charcuterie can help to balance out the tartness of sour beers.
Fruit
The sweetness of fruit can also help to balance out the tartness of sour beers. Some good fruits to pair with sour beers include berries, stone fruits, and tropical fruits.
Spicy food
The heat of spicy food can also help to balance out the tartness of sour beers. Some good spicy foods to pair with sour beers include Indian food, Thai food, and Mexican food.
Conclusion
Sour beers are a diverse and delicious style of beer that is sure to appeal to a wide range of palates. If you’re looking for a beer that is refreshing, complex, and unique, then a sour beer is definitely worth trying.
