7 Surprising Things You (Maybe) Didn't Know About Beer
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7 Surprising Things You (Maybe) Didn't Know About Beer
Beer is one of the oldest and most beloved beverages in the world. It's shared with friends, paired with fine foods, or simply enjoyed for the sheer pleasure of it.
But behind every sip lies a fascinating universe, made of history, science... and surprises!
Here are 7 amazing facts you (probably) didn't know about beer
1. Beer is older than the pyramids
And yes! The first traces of beer date back more than 7,000 years, to Mesopotamia. The Sumerians were already producing it and even worshipped a dedicated goddess, Ninkasi , the goddess of beer. Some historians believe that beer may have been one of the reasons why humans began cultivating cereals.
2. Foam isn't just about aesthetics
Beer foam isn't just a pretty hat! It plays an essential role: it protects the beer from oxidation , and therefore from the loss of aromas. Furthermore, a dense and persistent foam is often a sign of a well-brewed (and well-served) beer.
3. Some beers age…under the sea
Some brewers are experimenting with maturing beer on the ocean floor . Thanks to the constant temperature, the absence of light, and the natural movement of currents, the beer develops unique aromas. The result? Exceptional beers with an inimitable character.
4. There is a beer… with gold inside
In some countries, including Japan and Germany, you can enjoy beers containing edible gold flakes . The result is spectacular, but the price is also very high!
5. Hops are a cousin of cannabis
The hops plant ( Humulus lupulus ) belongs to the same botanical family as cannabis ( Cannabaceae ). It doesn't have any psychotropic effects, of course, but these plants share some aromatic compounds that are responsible for the powerful flavors, especially in IPAs.
6. The first brewers were… women
In ancient times, as well as in the Middle Ages, women were the main producers of beer . In England, they were called "alewives" and they brewed in a domestic setting. Today, the world of women brewing is experiencing a real revival, and that's great news!
7. The strongest beer in the world? A real record
The prize for the world's strongest beer goes to "Snake Venom" from the Scottish brewery Brewmeister: it boasts an incredible 67.5% alcohol ! Not a beer to be gulped down, but a true brewing UFO.
In conclusion
Behind every beer lies a story, a discovery, a tradition. This is what makes the world of beer so exciting: it is vast, varied, and constantly evolving.
So the next time you raise your glass, remember that you're enjoying more than just a drink: a little piece of culture.