Ever Wondered Why Beer Tastes Better When Served Cold? This Study Has The Answer

Everyone enjoys the feeling of having a cold beer on a warm day. Scientists have now investigated the science of beer to determine why, exactly, a cold pint is the perfect beverage. Why beer tastes better at lower temperatures has been clarified by a recent study that was published in the Matter Journal. The researchers looked at how the molecules of ethanol and water behaved in various alcoholic beverages. They found that temperature has an effect on these molecules’ structure, which can alter taste, in addition to a drink’s alcohol by volume (ABV).

“The preference for cold beer is supported by our findings. Lower temperatures enhance the distinct sensory attributes of beer, making it more enjoyable for many consumers,” one of the authors of the study, Prof Lei Jiang said as quoted by The Telegraph.

When the researchers studied the clusters of water and ethanol molecules, they noted that they formed distinct geometries in certain drinks at a given temperature. At lower temperatures, the clusters in lower ABV liquids (such as beer) appeared to form pyramid-like formations. Warmer drinks with a greater ABV, on the other hand, formed clusters with chain-like structures.

“When the temperature drops, the structure becomes more compact, which is why chilled beer has a more stimulating taste,” Prof Jiang said, according to New Scientist. Furthermore, he mentioned that the beverages with chain-like patterns have a more pungent smell, but these pyramid clusters are “associated with a more refreshing flavour.”

Previous research findings on the impact of climate change on beer garnered global headlines. The study, which was published in the scientific journal Nature Communications, revealed that climate change might potentially raise beer prices and affect its taste. Rising temperatures and other factors can diminish the quantity and quality of hop flowers, which are a major element in beer making.

No matter how delicious an ice-cold beer may sound, drinking alcohol can lead to several health problems, including dehydration, headaches, heart palpitations, stomach problems, nausea, vomiting, and inflammation in the liver, pancreas, brain, gastrointestinal tract, and other organs as the body tries to rid itself of toxins and replenish its stores of nutrients.