Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

Which term describes the beer trait that is based on the relationship between IBUs and malt content?

1. Alcohol warmth

2. Aroma balance

3. Malt intensity

4. Perceived bitterness

The correct answer is: Perceived bitterness

The term that describes the beer trait based on the relationship between International Bitterness Units (IBUs) and malt content is perceived bitterness. This concept acknowledges that the bitterness of a beer, which comes primarily from hop content measured in IBUs, can be influenced by the sweetness provided by the malt. When a beer has a higher malt content, it typically imparts a degree of sweetness that can counterbalance the bitterness from the hops. As a result, a beer with high IBUs but also a significant malt backbone may not taste as bitter as one with the same IBU level but lower malt sweetness. This interaction creates the experience of perceived bitterness, which varies depending on the balance between the beer's bitterness and sweetness. In contrast, terms like alcohol warmth or aroma balance do not specifically deal with the interplay between bitterness and malt content. Malt intensity refers to the richness and flavor contribution of the malt itself, rather than its role in moderating perceived bitterness. Thus, perceived bitterness is the most accurate term for this relationship in beer tasting and evaluating.