Taste Preferences: American vs European Beer
When it comes to the age-old debate of which is better: American or European beer, the decision often comes down to personal taste and regional availability. However, as someone who has lived and worked in both continents, I can offer an informed opinion on what each region has to offer in the world of alcoholic beverages.
European Beer: A Personal Preference
When I think of beer, my taste buds are most at home in the realm of real ales, particularly those from England. The Belgian and Dutch beers I've tried on the continent are indeed excellent, yet they are not the same as the cask ales of my homeland. For a refreshing, cold beer, a bottom-fermented lager like Schwinkels from the Netherlands is a delightfully crisp choice.
The world is awash with a myriad of craft ales, many of which are variations of India Pale Ales (IPAs). While some of these IPAs are incredibly good, there are also those that fall into the "hipster shite" category. IPA has been an established style for over 180 years, with many of the same brewers also producing cask ales. Some modern IPAs, however, do not live up to the original style, and like everything in the craft beer world, beer continues to evolve.
During my time on the continent, I have had the pleasure of experiencing some truly amazing beers. However, I must emphasize that when it comes to the British beer landscape, particularly English beers, the options are overwhelmingly superior in my personal experience. Beer in the US, on the other hand, offers a diverse range, with some outstanding examples of fantastic beers.
However, the comparison between American and European beers is not just a regional affair. It is often marred by the existence of some of the world's most obnoxious and poorly regarded beer brands. The ongoing contest between Molson Dry and Kronenbourg is a prime example of such a negative comparison. Both are notorious for their inoffensive, almost undrinkable quality. This spirited rivalry highlights the fact that preference cannot be based solely on geographical origin but must be judged by those who appreciate the style.
Global Diversity and Personal Preference
Despite the prevalence of poor examples in some regions, there are undoubtedly excellent beers in every country. In France, for instance, Belgian beers are readily available and incredibly varied. I appreciate honey ales and strong Belgian ales, but I find IPAs to be a bit out of my comfort zone. When I make my choice, it is based on what is available and what I personally enjoy. Some excellent Belgian options include Barbar (an excellent honey ale), La Chouffe (a pretty good strong ale), and Trappiste Rochefort 10 (a gem of a strong brown ale).
In the United States, there are outstanding breweries, and it’s not about being a connoisseur; it’s about the accessibility and quality of the beer. When I'm in the States, I am open to American craft beers, and there is no denying the presence of world-class breweries.
The Conclusion Is ...
While American and European beers offer distinct flavors and experiences, the real answer to the question Do you prefer American or European beer? is that it doesn't have to be a binary choice. Beer lovers should embrace the diversity of options available and enjoy a good pint from any continent. The key factor is finding what fits one's personal taste, rather than following regional biases or stereotypes.