What is a Flight of Beer? – A Simple Guide To Beer Flights
What is a beer flight? How do you drink a beer flight? Where can you get your own beer flight set? We answer all your questions in this article on everything you need to know about Beer Flights. A Beer Geek’s Simple Guide to Beer Flight Tastings.
By Clara Jaide on May. 19, 2017
You’ve probably heard the term “Beer Flight” or “Flight of Beer” before if you frequent pubs. You’ve also probably seen wooden boards with holes for glasses of beer in them. If you’re wondering what these are or why people get them, we’ll tell you below:
What is a Flight of Beer?
Beer flights are small servings of various beers. They come in anywhere from 4-8 varieties depending on the Brewpub. Usually, you’ll receive a small 3 – 5 oz. glass of each beer you’d like to try on a wooden board called a Beer Flight Paddle. Sometimes Beer Flights have some sort of “theme” to them, where the brewer will have a select few beers on the paddle. Other times, the beers on the paddle are chosen at random.
Why do people order beer flights?
Beer Flights are a great way to sample what’s on tap. For those who are new to the craft beer world, a flight of beer would be an excellent way to start figuring out what you like and dislike. It is also a great way to sample a brewery’s beers without breaking the bank.
How To Drink A Beer Flight
There is really no “right” or “wrong” way to drink a flight of beer, however, there are certain methods that may make the tasting experience a little easier and help you get the most out of your beer flight.
Often you will see beer in a flight arranged in light to dark. Drinking the beer in your flight in a specific order, like starting light in flavour and finishing strong (literally), can enhance the tasting experience. Try starting with a light flavoured, refreshing beer like a lager or blonde ale, then move your way down– finishing with a strong beer like a double IPA, imperial stout or porter.
Beer Flight Tasting Tip
Drink from lightest to strongest with water in between each beer.
This will help you start each tasting with a fresh palate.
How To Organize A Beer Flight
The beauty of the beer flight is that usually there are no set rules. You can have a flight with beer from different brewers, but the same style or one brewer with different styles. Some brewpubs have standard glasses and some will serve mini versions of the glass.
Create Your Own Beer Flight
Organize a flight of beer with some of your personal favourite brews from the comfort of your own home with a beer flight set.
Have your beer and drink it too! Try a beer flight next time you are unsure, indecisive or just plain curious. Make sure to take note of what beer you liked and didn’t like on your JustBeer App.
Now that you have everything you need to know about beer flights, it’s time to learn more about beer! Check out these articles you might like:
A Flight While Waiting for Your Flight
How to Learn What Beer Styles You Like?
How To Describe Beer Like a Pro
Choosing the Perfect Beer for Your Tastes