What to expect
A tart beer style that can range from subtle to punchy. Some sour beers have fruit additions; others put the tart base first. Sweetness and acidity both vary widely.
How sour beer is made
A brewer can create tartness using lactic acid bacteria, mixed fermentation, or another souring method. In a kettle sour, bacteria acidify the wort before a later boil; yeast then ferments the beer. Other sour beers may spend a longer time with yeast and bacteria together. Fruit may be added, but it is not needed for a beer to be sour.
What makes sour beer different
Acidity, rather than roast or hop bitterness, is the defining taste. Sour beers can range from lightly tart to sharply acidic and may be dry or sweet. Unlike a wheat beer, which can also seem bright, a sour beer has intentional acidity. The method and fruit choices determine much of the range.
What to ask for
Ask for a small sample if you are unsure how tart a pour will be.
Find a local version
Beer lists change. Ask a local brewery what is currently on tap, or check its latest online list before you travel.
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