Beer has evolved far beyond the traditional "light" and "strong" categories, with craft breweries offering a wide range of styles, each featuring distinct flavours, aromas and brewing techniques. On World Beer Day 2026, brewing experts are encouraging consumers to explore different varieties and discover the right beer for every occasion, meal and season.

Industry experts say understanding beer styles can significantly enhance the drinking experience, especially when paired with the right food.

Understanding Popular Beer Styles

According to Anirudh Khanna, Managing Director of Independence Brewing Company, the difference between beer styles lies in their ingredients, fermentation process and brewing methods.

Lager is considered the most approachable style for beginners. It is crisp, light, refreshing and ideal for warm weather.

Ales, including Hefeweizens, Belgian Wits and Pale Ales, offer fruitier aromas and more complex flavour profiles while remaining easy to drink.

India Pale Ale (IPA) is known for its bold hop character, citrus notes, tropical fruit flavours and balanced bitterness, making it a favourite among craft beer enthusiasts.

Stouts are darker, richer beers with flavours of roasted malt, coffee and chocolate. They are often preferred during cooler weather or as dessert beers.

A lesser-known style, Graf, combines elements of beer and cider, delivering a balance of crisp apple notes with traditional beer characteristics.

Khanna believes beer enthusiasts should experiment with different styles rather than limiting themselves to a single variety.

Beer and Indian Food Pairings

Experts say the right food pairing can elevate both the flavours of the beer and the dish.

Some recommended combinations include:

• Hefeweizen with spicy thecha corn ribs.

• Belgian Wit with fried butter chicken.

• Juicy IPA paired with lamb wasabi papdi.

• Belgian Wit alongside mushroom galouti pâté.

• Lager served with Irani hara masala kheema toast.

• Nitro Stout paired with chocolate-based desserts.

According to brewers, the refreshing nature of lighter beers balances spicy Indian cuisine, while darker beers complement rich and sweet dishes.

Choosing Beer by Season

While personal preference remains the most important factor, experts suggest selecting beers according to the weather.

Lagers, Hefeweizens and Belgian Wits are considered ideal during summer and the monsoon because of their refreshing and citrus-forward profiles.

In contrast, fuller-bodied IPAs and stouts are often preferred during colder months due to their richer flavours and heavier texture.

Easy Beer Cocktails for Home

Beer can also be used to prepare simple cocktails suitable for home gatherings.

A Citrus Lager Cooler combines chilled lager with fresh orange juice, lime juice and ice before being garnished with an orange slice.

For those who prefer fruity flavours, a Berry Wit Cooler blends Belgian Wit with fresh berries, mint, honey and lemon juice to create a light and refreshing drink.

Growing Popularity of Craft Beer

The craft beer industry has witnessed steady growth in recent years as consumers become more interested in experimenting with flavours beyond conventional beer styles.

Industry experts say there is no single "best" beer. Instead, the ideal choice depends on individual taste, the food being served and the occasion.

World Beer Day serves as an opportunity for enthusiasts and newcomers alike to explore the diversity of beer while appreciating the craftsmanship behind different brewing traditions.