I'm going to audition to do a semi-regular beer webcast for a local liquor store that already has a wine show. For my audition my theme was going to be "gateway beers." I'm looking for suggestions on what beers you think would be good to taste.
What is a gateway beer?It could either be a beer that introduces you to the world of good beer and craft beer. It could also be the first beer of a style you had that you like (i.e., the first good hoppy beer or first good stout). To qualify it would have to be a beer that's widely available. It would not necessarily have to be a perfect example of a style, but rather a beer that could be widely enjoyed. I've also decided to discuss the "revolution of American beer" so I'm thinking about focusing mainly on American craft brews (but not necessarily. Also, I can't do every style category so I was thinking of focusing on a few flavor components.
I am really hoping you can let me know what some of your gateway beers or what you think would be good gateway beers! Below are my initial thoughts.
Pilsner (to compare to American "Pilsners" from large breweries): Victory Prima Pils
Other Lager: Samuel Adams Boston Lager, ???
Pale Ale / Hops: Sierra Nevada (obvious), maybe some others similar?
Dark / Roasty- Sam Adams Cream Stout. Too bad Dogfishead Chicory is only a seasonal release now
Malt-Heavy: Rogue Hazlenut Brown Nectar, Saranac Scotch (kinda hard to find)
Fruity - Blue Point Blueberry Ale, Harpoon Rasp UFO (summer beer, but not nearly as good), this one more for people who like sweet drinks and aren't real beer drinkers.
Wheat: Widmar Bros Heffe (NOTE: I know a lot more people who got into beer via German Heffes than Americans, so this is the biggest hole in my american only aresenal).
