Why foam matters in beer

Beer foam is often misunderstood, seen by some drinkers as little more than decoration or wasted beer. Yet from a brewing and sensory perspective, foam plays a fundamental role in how beer looks, smells and tastes. In this article, brewer, beer judge and Budvar Global Brand Ambassador Radim Zvánovec explores the science, tradition and service techniques behind great beer foam, from the proteins and hop compounds that stabilise it to the Czech pouring culture that treats foam as an essential part of the drinking experience itself. Many consumers still see foam as something undesirable, maybe a trick to serve less beer for the same price. In many parts of the world, a beer with a thick, creamy head is still met with the familiar reaction: “Too much foam.” Or “Can you add Flake in it!?” Yet from a brewing and sensory perspective, the exact opposite is true. Good foam is one of the clearest indicators of beer quality. A stable foam head reflects proper carbonation, clean glassware, healthy

by WSETglobal · source ↗