Beer Lover's Companion: A Guide to Producing, Brewing, Tasting, Rating and Drinking Around the World

by Josh Leventhal

Continuing BD&L's successful bartenders series, the Beer Lover's Companion offers beer buffs and novices a clear and comprehensive illustrated guide to 400 of the best brews from around the world.

Two-page spreads highlight prominent beers from each region. More than 100 photographs show the bottles, labels and brewery facilities, and concise descriptions tell the origins, legends, brewing process and give a short assessment of each beer's flavor.

The book explains the differences among lagers, pilsners, stouts, bitters, wheat beers and porters--and examines the benefits and disadvantages of commercial breweries and micro-breweries, as well as tips on brewing beer at home. Notes on home brewing and brewing ingredients enhance drinking experience and beer knowledge. Tasting suggestions tell readers how to properly sample beers, and recipes suggest foods to match the different styles.

This book is a tour guide through the brewmaster's world, covering every significant beer--from ales and wheat beer to ambers and porters made in the US and aboard.

Genres: Reference, Nonfiction

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Paul Young · Rating 3 out of 5]

I particularly liked the brief histories of the non-USA based breweries.

[Val · Rating 3 out of 5]

Straightforward book that gives an overview of the history of beer making and how the various styles differentiate themselves. The book ends with a comprehensive (as of 1999) list of world beer makers. However, given the constant change in the craft beer industry of the last 20-30 years, the list shows its age. Overall a fairly enjoyable book.