When did I first start liking beer...

It was that first cold glass I downed at a chicken place after a gathering with my college freshmen friends on a sweltering summer day.

Back then, I just thought, "Wow~ it's refreshing, nice," but now I can talk endlessly about the origins of beer and Houston breweries.

Beer is actually an incredibly old drink.

Evidence of fermented barley has been found in Mesopotamia dating back 5,000 years.

It all started when barley accidentally fermented after getting wet while making bread.

The most common type of beer in America is definitely lager.

When you go to the supermarket, you'll find Budweiser, Coors, and Miller lined up in the fridge.

It's perfect for gulping down on a hot day. Most beers consumed in Korea are also lagers, as they pair well with snacks.

But these days, ales, especially IPAs, are all the rage. They have a strong hop aroma and fruity notes, with a certain charm that says, "This is the taste!"

Honestly, while lagers are the 'people's beer' that anyone can easily drink, IPAs are like the 'geek beer' that appeals to those with specific tastes.

When talking about beer, you can't skip Ballast Point. They have a legendary beer called Sculpin IPA.

It enhances the hop aroma intensely while being easy to drink, so anyone who has had a bit of beer has probably sought it out at least once.

At this point, it's not just beer; it's said to be a work of art.

When you think of dark beer, the first impression is often 'rich and heavy,' right?

In fact, the official names for dark beers refer to styles like stout or porter, which are made by roasting barley strongly, giving them their unique dark color and rich aroma.

Flavors reminiscent of coffee or dark chocolate can be felt, so first-time drinkers might be surprised and ask, "Is this really beer?"

Unlike lagers that you gulp down, dark beers are more enjoyable when sipped and savored.

In the U.S., stouts like Guinness are consistently loved, and nowadays, local breweries are even releasing dark beers infused with vanilla, cocoa, and even chili.

In Houston, breweries often release limited edition dark beers during the winter season, which are perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.

Dark beer is not just about its dark color; it showcases another world of beer through its flavors and depth.

And speaking of the beer scene in Houston, the weather here is so hot for half the year that you can't live without beer.

Maybe that's why the brewery culture is so vibrant.

For example, St. Arnold is the oldest craft brewery in Texas and a true source of pride for Houstonians.

They have a beer called 'Fancy Lawnmower,' and just like the name suggests, taking a sip after mowing the lawn and sweating buckets feels like heaven.

Carbock Brewing is also famous, and their 'Hopadillo IPA' is a staple at Houston barbecue parties. The spicy barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with the bitterness of the IPA.

To be honest, beer is like a friend that has naturally blended into my life in America.

When I watch the Super Bowl, it feels empty without it, and after sweating buckets in the summer, cracking open a cold can at home is pure happiness.

The refreshing taste of lagers, the character of ales, the experimental spirit of cult beers, and the passion of Houston breweries...

For some, wine creates wonderful moments, but for me, beer plays that role.

Beer is not just a drink; it's a culture that connects people, whether chatting with friends or enjoying solitude.