History Of Beer

Beer has a long and fascinating history. From ancient Egypt to medieval monks, from Australian Governors encouraging the establishment of breweries to (for a time) being outlawed by the U.S. Constitution, beer has come a long way. Today beer is one of the most common and popular beverages the world over.

Beer has, over the years, been part of daily ration for people whose lives have been long and hard and at the same time been the symbol of celebration, recreation and relaxation.

The word 'beer' most likely comes from either the old English 'bere' or from the plant 'beere', which was once used in making beer. Another possibility is that the word beer comes from the Latin 'bibere', which means 'to drink', which then became 'biber' and then 'bier'.

Beer Making:

Beer is made from grains, hops, water and yeast used in different combinations. The beer-making process is a complex process, a unique mix of art and science. The distinctiveness in a style of beer is produced through the use of selected malts, hops, yeasts, water and production methods. Many variables affect the character of beer during the brewing process. Some of these variables are the choice of grains, malting methods, character of water, climatic conditions, adjunct grains and fermentation temperatures. The beer-making process consists of six key steps: Brewing, Fermentation, Storage, Filtration, Pasteurisation and Packaging. The brewer creates a harmonious mix by balancing ingredients and processes.

Types of Beer:

All beer can be classified as being either a Larger or an Ale. The differences begin during the brewing process. Beer gets defined as a lager or an ale by the type of yeast used in the brew & the temperature at which fermentation takes place. Lagers are brewed with bottom-fermenting yeast, which ferments more slowly and at colder temperatures. Ales are brewed with top-fermenting yeast, which allows for rapid fermentation at warmer tempeatures. Lagers and Ales are further divided into several styles of beer depending on the locations in which the brews were produced and the variations in the process of brewing.

Serving and Enjoying Beer:

To drink a beer is not just to put bottle to glass, glass to mouth and swallow until it is all over. To derive true joy from drinking a beer you have to involve yourself in the art of Serving and Enjoying Beer. There a various aspects to Serving and Enjoying a beer:
1. Ways in which to store it.
2. How you should pour it.
3. The glasses you should use for a particular type of beer.
4. The ideal temperature at which you should serve it.


Food and Beer:

Without question, the greatest invention in the history of mankind is beer. "Oh, I grant you the wheel was also a fine invention, but the wheel does not go nearly as well with pizza." � Dave Barry.

Have you ever wondered what type of beer goes well with Grilled Teriyaki Marinated Chicken? Or if a lager will complement that spicy and crisp Vegetable Tofu Curry? If you have, then you were, at that point, beginning to explore the art of pairing beer with food. This module will help you indulge in this art � an art that will enhance the joy of drinking beer. You will find ways to pair food with the various styles of beer and to pair beer with cuisine from around the world.