CFPS Beer and Food Pairing 2

Question 1

Which beer style is most classically paired with a traditional Bavarian soft pretzel?

Accepted Answer

Märzen / Helles Lager

Answer

The malty, lightly sweet, clean character of a Märzen or Helles complements the salty, doughy character of a pretzel, while the gentle bitterness cuts through the fat in the accompanying mustard.

Question 2

When pairing beer with blue cheese (Roquefort, Gorgonzola), which style works best and why?

Accepted Answer

Barleywine or Imperial Stout — sweetness and strength balance the cheese's intense saltiness and pungency

Answer

Strong, sweet, high-ABV beers like barleywines and Imperial Stouts can stand up to the intense, pungent character of blue cheese, with residual sweetness balancing the salt and fat.

Question 3

Which pairing type is most appropriate for a spicy Thai curry?

Accepted Answer

Malt-forward lager or wheat beer — the sweetness soothes capsaicin heat and avoids compounding bitterness

Answer

Malt sweetness and moderate carbonation soothe the tongue's capsaicin receptors, while wheat beers complement the lemongrass, ginger, and citrus notes common in Thai cuisine.

Question 4

A sour beer (Gueuze or Flanders Red) pairs well with a rich beef stew because:

Accepted Answer

The beer's acidity cuts through the fat and richness of the stew, acting as a palate cleanser

Answer

Lactic or acetic acid in sour beers acts like a squeeze of lemon on a rich dish — cutting through fat and refreshing the palate to prevent flavor fatigue.

Question 5

The concept of 'matching intensity' in beer pairing means:

Accepted Answer

Pairing a robust, full-flavored beer with equally bold food so neither overwhelms the other

Answer

Intensity matching ensures the beer and food have equal 'weight' — a delicate poached fish would be overwhelmed by an Imperial Stout, just as a light lager would disappear next to a spicy barbecue brisket.

CFPS - Certified Cicerone Practice Test

CFPS - Certified Cicerone Practice Test

CFPS Beer and Food Pairing 2