Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a cold water rinse of glass before pouring?

1. Removes residual sanitizer

2. Adjusts the glass temperature

3. Enhances aroma of beer

4. Increases foam stability

The correct answer is: Removes residual sanitizer

The primary purpose of performing a cold water rinse of a glass before pouring beer is to remove residual sanitizer. When glassware is washed and sanitized, traces of sanitizer can remain in the glass. These residues can negatively affect the flavor and aroma of the beer, as well as its overall quality. By rinsing the glass with cold water, you effectively ensure that any residual sanitizer is washed away, providing a clean surface for the beer to make contact. This step is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the beer's flavors and aromas during serving. While adjusting glass temperature, enhancing aroma, and increasing foam stability are all important aspects of serving beer, they are not the primary reason for a cold water rinse. Adjusting glass temperature is typically done to minimize shock when the beer is poured, while enhancing aroma and foam stability relate more to the beer itself than to the cleaning process of the glassware.