Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

What is the recommended practice for tasting beer?

1. Take small sips to evaluate aroma only

2. Move beer around mouth to stimulate as many taste buds as possible

3. Drink it quickly to enjoy the aftertaste

4. Focus only on the visual appearance

The correct answer is: Move beer around mouth to stimulate as many taste buds as possible

The recommended practice for tasting beer involves moving the beer around your mouth to stimulate as many taste buds as possible. This technique allows you to fully engage with the beer's flavor profile, as different parts of your tongue are sensitive to different tastes (sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami). By swirling the beer in your mouth, you expose it to each area of your tongue and palate, incorporating not only the primary flavors but also the aromas that contribute to the overall experience. It’s important to note that taking small sips to evaluate aroma only limits the tasting experience, as aroma is just one part of flavor. Drinking quickly does not allow for proper appreciation of the beer's complexity and prevents tasting from being a thoughtful process. Additionally, focusing solely on the visual appearance ignores the critical sensory components of taste and aroma that are essential for a comprehensive beer tasting experience.