Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

What beer attribute is fixed in bottled beer but can be affected in draft beer?

1. Flavor

2. Color

3. Carbonation

4. Alcohol content

The correct answer is: Carbonation

Carbonation is the correct attribute associated with the differences between bottled and draft beer. In bottled beer, carbonation levels are typically fixed during the packaging process, which can involve either natural carbonation through bottle conditioning or forced carbonation before sealing. This results in a consistent level of fizz when the bottle is opened. In contrast, draft beer can experience variations in carbonation for several reasons. Factors such as the serving pressure, the type of draft system used, and how well the keg has been handled can all affect how carbonated the beer is when it is poured. Under-carbonated draft beer may appear flat and taste less lively, while over-carbonated draft beer can lead to excessive foaming and a loss of aroma. Flavor, color, and alcohol content are generally stable once the beer has been brewed and packaged. While they can vary based on the brewing process or ingredients, they are not directly subject to changes in the way carbonation can be affected in draft systems.