Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

Which of the following styles has the lowest level of perceived bitterness?

1. American IPA

2. American Pale Ale

3. Czech Premium Pale Lager

4. Wee Heavy

The correct answer is: Wee Heavy

The style that tends to have the lowest level of perceived bitterness is Wee Heavy. This Scottish beer style is known for its rich, malty character, which often dominates its flavor profile. Wee Heavy is typically brewed with a high malt content and includes caramelized malts that impart sweetness and complexity, balancing out any bitterness from hops. In contrast, American IPAs and American Pale Ales are well-known for their hop-forward profiles, which provide significant bitterness. Czech Premium Pale Lager, while generally smoother than the hoppy American styles, still has detectable bitterness that is characteristic of pale lagers. In instances where hop bitterness is present, it does not usually overshadow the malt base as it does in many American styles, yet it can still be noticeable. Thus, the perceived bitterness in Wee Heavy is quite low, making it a unique choice among the styles listed, as the malt sweetness and body provide a predominant flavor experience rather than hop bitterness.