Playa Liquor's Guide to Enjoying Beer

Life in Aruba is full of simple pleasures. From rising to the sound of birdsong to taking a dive into the clear blue ocean. But above all, there’s something truly timeless about sipping a cold beer on a hot day. After all, beer is simple. It’s easygoing, and perfect for nearly any moment; whether you’re hanging with friends, relaxing at the beach, or watching a game. But there are some tricks that’ll truly elevate how you drink your beer. 

This short guide covers a few easy ways to get more out of your beer moments – from the glass you choose to the food you’re pairing it with. Plus, we’ll share a special beer recommendation that you can enjoy in Aruba.

1. Chill It Right 

No one likes warm beer, but not all beers should be ice-cold either! Most lagers and light beers taste best when they’re chilled to around 4-6°C (the average temperature in your fridge). 

The next most important step is how you store your beer in the fridge. While you might want to stack them all on top of each other, keeping your beer upright keeps them fresh for longer. This is because there’s less surface area of the liquid exposed to the small amount of air inside the bottle or can, meaning that oxidation happens at a slower pace. In other words, it’ll retain its flavor and aroma for a longer period.

But by all means, avoid putting your beer in the freezer! It’ll dull the flavor and mess with the carbonation, leaving you with a sad and tasteless drink. 

2. Choose the Right Glass

While sipping it straight from the bottle is convenient, pouring your beer into a glass can change the entire experience as the right glass will enhance a beer’s aroma, texture, and taste.

To help you get the most out of every pour, here’s a quick guide to five of the most popular beer glasses:

1. Pint Glass: Best for lagers, IPAs, pale ales, and porters. A versatile glass that’s great for most everyday beers.

2. Tulip Glass: Best for Belgian ales, double IPAs, and saisons. This glass is the go-to for more aromatic and complex beers as it traps the aroma and enhances the flavor.

3. Weizen Glass: Best for wheat beers, as it highlights fruity and spicy notes.

4. Snifter: Best for strong ales, imperial stouts, and barleywines. In essence, this is a great glass for big, bold wines as it concentrates the aroma.

5. Pilsner Glass: Best for pilsners and light lagers. It’s a slim and tall glass that’ll show off your beer’s carbonation and crispness.

3. Try Beer + Food Pairings

What’s better than a cold beer on a hot day? A cold beer on a hot day, combined with a delicious meal! Pairing your beer with the right food is one of the best ways to elevate your drinking experience. 

Lighter beers generally go well with lighter food, like fish, tapas, cheese, or anything salty – whereas heavier beers can stand up to bold flavors like stews or chocolate cake. And If you’re drinking a hoppy beer, try pairing it with something spicy or something fried.

4. Explore What You Like

The world of beer is wonderfully diverse, offering a rich spectrum of styles that cater to every palate. From crisp and refreshing lagers to bold, hop-forward IPAs and fruit-infused specialty brews, each variety opens the door to a unique sensory experience. This diversity is what makes beer so endlessly enjoyable — there's always something new to discover, no matter your taste.

If you're looking to explore the local beer scene in Aruba, try sampling a range of styles. Take the time to notice the subtle differences in flavor, aroma, and body, and make note of what truly resonates with you. 

With a little curiosity, you might just find a new favorite!

5. Make It a Moment

Moments are made special with the right intentions. 

Sure, beer is just a drink, but it can also be a ritual. Take a minute to enjoy the pour, smell the aroma, and take in that first sip. Whether you’re sharing a round with friends or winding down solo, slow down and enjoy the moment.

Our Beer Recommendation: Estrella Damm

If you're in the mood for something crisp and easy to sip in Aruba’s warm breeze, Estrella Damm is a solid pick. Brewed with 100% natural ingredients, it’s a clean, refreshing pale lager that’s well-balanced and effortlessly drinkable.

We’re proud to carry Estrella here at Playa Liquor, available by the bottle or by the case. Whether you're stocking up for the weekend or just curious to try something new, drop by or send us a message.

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Looking to order beer, wine, or spirits in Aruba? Playa Liquor is your trusted local wholesaler, serving both businesses and individuals. You can place your order by phone or email—just head to our Contact page for all the details. And while you're at it, follow us on Facebook to stay in the loop on new arrivals, specials, and more recommendations.