There are a whopping 25 different types of taste receptors for bitterness in the human body. ... The alpha and beta acids found in hops, as well as the low concentrations of ethanol in beer, bind to three of these 25 bitter receptors, signaling a strong bitter taste to the brain when you take a sip of lager, Lovelace said.

What does beer actually taste like?

What does beer taste like? Generally speaking, beer can be sweet, sour, or even bitter depending on the ingredients, storage process (is the beer fresh, canned, or bottled?), age, and manufacturer. As you can see, there is no set taste.

Is beer really an acquired taste?

A person who tries beer will likely begin with a sweeter, more mildly flavored option, but may eventually move on to a more bitter hoppy style or even something sour. ... As long as you have no reason to avoid it, beer can be an acquired taste worth having!