4 of 4

Write now Article Tools

There is a national chain of pubs who now have enormous neon signs on their walls, which tell their customers in numbers two feet tall, the temperature of the beer at any given moment. It seems that today, the coolness of lager matters, whereas a while ago it was never discussed. Many of the latest lager fonts are chrome monstrosities, which are covered in a layer of ice, in order to send home the message that the beer issuing forth is ice cold.

So what is the ideal temperature to serve beer? Too cold, and all the flavour disappears. Too warm and the taste loses its edge.

I use a 'twice chilled' method in my bar which delivers my lager style beers and my Guinness at 2 degrees C. The only time this might vary is during a rush when the chillers have trouble keeping up with demand.I always use chilled glasses.

My pride and joy however, is my cast conditioned ale. This is stored deep below ground in a cellar. A cooling system is installed which keeps the temperature of the cellar at a precise 14 degrees C which is considered the perfect level at which to enjoy these wonderful beers. I have regular inspections by Camra - the beer police! - who come armed with thermometers to check my ale is being served in perfect condition! American visitors are always fascinated by what they call our 'warm' beer!

Interestingly, two national brewers have broken ranks ,and are now offering a couple of their best selling ales chilled in an attempt to lure lager drinkers. It remains to be seen if they will succeed!

Very recently, cider sales have gone through the roof as a result of an advertising campaign by a producer promoting cider over ice. It has been predicted that within a year, beer will be going the same way in order to hang on to the fickle youth market.

I for one remain unconvinced!

Learn more about this author, Keith Hillman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about A beginner's guide to ideal beer-serving temperatures?
We want to hear your view. Write now!