Subjective Elements Of Excellence Craft Brewery
The question is, what makes this craft beer so excellent when developing a mini brewery? The following are measurements that define the best beers, some of which are required and others optional.
Consistency and Balance
We often use the term “balance” in the context of beer, which usually refers to the relationship between hops and malt. In Belgian beer, fermentation characteristics are usually one of those elements. In extreme beers like lambic or IPA, if the acidity or hoppiness lacks a balancing factor, it will overpower the beer.
Diversity
It’s possible to create an outstanding beer that meets all the criteria for quality and style, but lacks interest. Many of the best beers have a certain quality that sets them apart from their peers.
Nuance
An element I always appreciate in every beer is a touch of nuance. While some beers may showcase delicate flavors, even strongly-flavored ones can contain subtle tastes and aromas that fill the gaps between the boldness.
Surprises
While it’s not necessary for brewers to include unusual or unexpected elements in their beer, I always admire it when it’s done well. From a purely gustatory perspective, it adds clarity to a refreshing beer while harmonizing with citrusy flavors. These styles utilize hyper-local ingredients, and for a Midwest American farmhouse ale, corn would be a traditional choice.
Refinement
When breweries make a beer repeatedly over the course of many years, the brewers fine-tune every aspect. I began to appreciate this quality by tasting ales and comparing them to similar beers made by Americans.
Uniqueness
I mention this last because it has been overused, abused, and misused far too often by American breweries. We would never get new beer styles or brewing traditions if no one dared to experiment. Adhering to tradition is a timeless practice in breweries and is crucial for maintaining authenticity.
In extreme beers like lambic or IPA, if the acidity or hoppiness lacks a balancing factor, it will overpower the beer. Another aspect I appreciate in every beer is a touch of nuance. While some beers may showcase delicate flavors, even strongly-flavored ones can contain subtle tastes and aromas that fill the gaps between the boldness. It’s not necessary for brewers to include unusual or unexpected elements in their beer, but when it’s done well, I always admire it. When breweries make a beer repeatedly over the course of many years, the brewers fine-tune every aspect.
