Reviewing state of mind

Me too. I review a beer alone most of the time. Who wants to see you with your nose in a glass and jotting down your notes? I set myself up at my computer desk and peruse WBAYDN or the other threads. I try to taste a beer in the late morning or just before lunch. I actually read in Randy Mosher's book that mid morning is a preferred time to taste beer because your senses are at their peak. I am not big on background nose and I prefer the quiet. It's good to do it when there is no cooking odors to interfere with the nose and when you are least likely to be interrupted.

 

Nah, I just take 'em as they come. A review is your thoughts, on that beer, at that time, at that place, under those conditions. Alone at home, in crowded bars, in full Major League Baseball stadiums, on moving Amtrak trains, by a campfire, I've reviewed under all those conditions and more.

 

I do all of the above. When I have the opportunity to review in solitude I do. When beers present themselves in other situations like a bar or gathering of friends I'll review if I have the opportunity. Generally my review will reflect that in some way. While I take reviewing seriously I approach it like a journalist. I go wherever the story is and report all I can.

 

At first I tried to review anything wherever I was. Now if I'm in the mood I review if not I don't. I will say I usually do reviews when I'm drinking alone, as it's not a very good group activity. I will do it if I'm just out with the wife, but if I'm out with friends (that aren't also reviewing) then I just let it go, and enjoy the beer and company.

 

I find not reading the reviews before you try it is a plus. I think a clean slate is best as so many of the reviews are diametrically opposed to each other.