Happy Oktoberfest! To beer!

First impressions are everything, right? When I take the first whiff and sip of beer, if it’s remarkable, a rapid synaptic burst fires sensory images through my memory, triggering almost immediate response. For example:

Ninkasi Parlay Fresh Hop: Sage on the nose, along with some fresh spicy pine. Tastes like a blueberry muffin with sage butter! (I’ll have to try that as food someday)

Block 15 Ferme de la Ville-Provision: I can smell AND taste the grain, even after Brett. and barrel aging. Brilliant blend of spice, malt, and the smoothest sourness I’ve encountered.

Those are the remarkables of the day. This is a skill I’m hoping to develop further as part of judging practice; to build a neurological Rolodex from my scattered past experience of flavor and aroma.