Food for Thought: Enjoying your beer for more than just the alcohol

Beer is the drink of choice for so many people, and has such an important role worldwide. It is such a versatile drink, being appropriate in almost any social situation; it can be drank to celebrate a birthday or to compliment a classy dinner.

Beer has been a staple in society throughout history yet its popularity never ceases. Why is this carbonated beverage so famous? Because beer has evolved to suit almost any taste, depending on how it's made and what's added to it. There are wheat beers, fruit beers, crisp pilsners, dark ales and lighter lagers. There are also organic beers and low-calorie beers for those concerned with environment and nutrition.

Typically, beer is made from four main ingredients: malted barley, hops, yeast and water. Some breweries use additives for colour, flavour and clarity as well. This is why it is important to know what ingredients are used to make certain beers before you choose them as your “drink of choice” at the bar. Sure, some of the more natural beers can be more expensive than the economy brands, but at least you know what you are getting.

Here are some of my favourite beers that I recommend whether you are having a casual drink or planning on drinking more.

Steamwhistle
This is my all-time favourite beer. Steamwhistle breweries, located in Toronto, are not only concerned with supporting local arts but they're also a truly environmentally-friendly company. Not only does Steamwhistle practice environmentally-friendly initiatives, but the beer itself is free of chemical additives. Only water, hops, barley and yeast is used to make their beer, making it all-natural and so delicious. They offer Steamwhistle at most pubs and bars in the GTA and the availability is increasing rapidly here in London. They even sell it here in the Out Back Shack at Fanshawe!

Lindemans Kriek
If you are not a typical beer drinker or want to experiment, this beer is for you. The flavour and aroma of fresh cherries dominates this light beer, leaving you with a tart, fruity and slightly sweet taste that appeals to any cherry fan. Lindeman makes a slightly less sweet fruit beer than other breweries, which is perfect if you dislike the fake-tasting alternatives. No artificial flavours are added to this one (unlike some other brands of fruit flavoured beer) just the juice of black cherries. Even if you don't like beer, I'd give this one a try.

Duvel
This golden, full flavoured Belgian styled beer is truly an exquisite thing. The smooth taste of Duvel is complimented by champagne-like bubbles that give a distinct crispness, cutting through the heavier undertones. This tasty beer is not for the light-hearted however, packing quite the punch with an 8.5% alcohol content. Be sure to enjoy this beer slowly or you may find yourself ending the night early!

If you'd like to take a world beer tour and try some different brews from around the globe, there are a few local spots to hit that offer an extensive variety of beer for you to sample. Chancy Smiths at the Covent Garden Market, Chaucers on Carling Street (across from Up on Carling) and The Morrissey House on Dundas and Waterloo all have a beer collection that is sure to satisfy your curiosity. Maybe try a couple of the beers I've suggested and let me know what you think!