Perfect Beer Pouring: Serving from the Bottle, Can or Flagon

Ever wondered why that craft beer you poured at home doesn't quite measure up to the one you had at the pub? Well, mates, it's not just about the brew – it's about the pour! Let's dive into the frothy world of beer service and learn how to unleash the full potential of your favourite pint, whether it's coming from a bottle, can, or Flagon/Growler.

Bottle Brilliance: Cracking Open Perfection

When it comes to beer, presentation is key. Many of us will drink with our eyes. If it looks good, it will likely taste good, too.

Your standard bottle cap or swing top is pretty straightforward and open away from guests. But those fancy cork-and-cage numbers? They require a bit more finesse:

1. Carefully remove the cage.
2. Slowly twist the cork while gently pulling up.
3. Keep that bottle vertical.

Now, for the pour for bottles:

1. Tilt your glass at a 45-degree angle.
2. Pour slowly and steadily – we're not putting out a fire here!
3. As the beer approaches the rim of the glass, tilt the glass back to vertical and raise the bottle away from the glass to create that perfect head.

And for those German-style Hefeweizens with their yeasty goodness? Ask your guests if they want to "rouse the yeast". If they're game, give that bottle a gentle swirl and pour the cloudy goodness right into the centre of the glass.

However, yeast is typically not included in bottle-conditioned Belgian sour beers. So, a slow, careful pour or aid of a lambic pouring basket is recommended so that the yeast and sediment remain largely in the bottle.

Can-tastic Pouring: From Aluminium to Amazing

Cans might seem casual, but they in many ways, they are as good and sometimes better than glass. Thus, deserve just as much respect as their glass counterparts. Here's how to serve canned beer like a pro:

1. Pop that can open away from your guest – we're going for smooth, not startling.
2. Present the can label-forward – it's like showing off the cover of a good book.
3. Pour at a slight angle, about an inch from the glass rim, so the beer isn't dribbling over the uncleaned can lip.
4. As you fill, gradually tilt the glass upright.
5. For the grand finale, raise the can further from the glass to create that perfect head.

Remember, we're aiming for a head that almost crests over the top like a beautiful beer wave, not a sudsy tsunami that floods the table!

Flagon/Growler Greatness: The Take-Home Trophy

Ah, the Flagon/Growler – the beer lover's best friend for taking draft beer home. But pouring these beauties requires care and attention:

1. Support the Flagon/Growler like a newborn – one hand on the bottom, one on the neck.
2. Pour in a slow, steady stream.
3. Offer a small taste to your guest before the full pour.

Flagon/Growler Pro Tips:

• Keep 'em cool – a warm Flagon/Growler is about as useful as a chocolate teapot.
• Clear glass Flagon/Growlers and sunlight are mortal enemies – keep your beer in the dark!
• Once opened, drink up – it's not getting any fresher. These are designed to drink the whole volume in one sitting, so invite some friends over and enjoy.
• Rinse immediately after use and clean as soon as possible - future, you will thank you.

Remember, pouring beer is an art form. With these tips, you'll be creating masterpieces in no time. So, next time you're serving up a cold one, take a moment to appreciate the craft – both in the brewing and the pouring. Your taste buds will thank you!

MYO Drinks

Helping you to make your own Great Batch from Scratch.