Guide to Beer

Benjamin Franklin once famously said that beer is proof that God exists, and he wants us to be happy. There is some doubt that he actually said this, and some people believe that, if he did make the statement, his tongue was lodged firmly in his cheek. But regardless of who said it or how they meant it, there is a certain truth in the statement. Beer is a strange and wonderful elixir, and it can be an intimidating one for those who have little to no experience with it. If you want to learn a little about beer, pull up a chair and grab a pint glass. We’re going to talk beer.

A lager is one of the most common beers in the world. These beers are usually lighter in color, milder in taste, and best when served ice-cold. Some varieties can contain very high alcohol contents, such as the doppelbock beers, which can rate in the 10% alcohol range.

An ale is a beer that is usually made with malted barley and hops, which combine to give the beer a slightly sweeter, but at the same time, bitter flavour with notes of fruit. In some states, this is a term that legally has to be used when the drink in question has an alcoholic strength above that which a “beer” can allowably have.

A stout is a type of ale that is identifiable by its darker color. The dark colors are often the result of roasting the malt before using it to brew the beer.

A light beer is one that has a lower content of alcohol, or one with a reduced number of calories. They tend to be weaker in flavor as compared to non-light varieties, but some people prefer the less-strong beer taste. No matter your preference, the wide variety of beers out there will offer you a taste you will enjoy.

In the book, ” Drinking with George: A Barstool Professional’s Guide to Beer,” readers learn of a man who loves beer and has become a professional in it. You might know him from his days on the television blockbuster “Cheers” or in any of the other show business performances he has had over the years. No matter what you know about him, or do not, you can appreciate his good sense in beer. George Wendt is a professional when it comes to educating and entertaining those who want to learn about this favorite beverage.

As you consider all that Mr. Wendt has to say about lagers, stouts and ale, keep in mind that your home can be decked out to look just like the set of Cheers, with a beautiful tavern style bar complete with pub barstools. There are many ways to create a space that “Norm” would be happy to sit in and share fun stories with you at. For example, focus on the barstools themselves for a moment.

You could purchase high quality wood bar seating, those with beautiful detailing and strong legs. They are supportive and beautiful at the same time.

“Norm” would have appreciated swivel barstools, those that can easily turn from one direction to the next to allow him to talk to anyone at the bar he would like to. This can work very well within your home, too.

For clean lines and a more modern feel, consider metal barstools. These offer the same strength and quality as wooden stools, but they often provide a modern, clean look. This is the perfect addition to the modern style at home bar.

Barstools are just one element to the overall perception of this space. To really pull off the “Cheers” look at your at home bar, you will need to have the right decor in the space. A few of “Sam’s” baseball items or even a pool table off to the side, like the one that so many scenes from “Cheers” too place in. This will add to the space and really round out the look, especially if you ensure that the bar, barstools and the overall decor have the same stylistic characteristics about them.

In the book, “Drinking with George: A Barstool Professional’s Guide to Beer,” you will be impressed by the knowledge and depth of character that Mr. Wendt has. Although his character back in those days may not have been the most interesting, the man behind him offers a fun loving, detailed and even professional quality book on beer. It is the perfect accessory to your bar, especially if you are going for the “Cheers” bar look.

Keep in mind that great looking bars really start with great furniture. Invest in pub stools that really speak to the style that you are placing them in. Moreover, keep yourself focused on the details. Be sure you select barstools that offer the charm and style that you want to have in the space. With the “Cheers” motif in mind, start shopping for the right swivel barstools perfect for the space.