Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Test

Infection is a common beer fault that typically arises from the presence of unwanted microorganisms such as wild yeast or bacteria during the brewing process or fermentation. When these contaminants enter the brewing environment, they can interact with the beer's ingredients and create off-flavors or unpleasant aromas, such as sourness or a vinegar-like taste. This is particularly problematic in brewing, as sanitation is paramount to ensuring that only the intended yeast strain is responsible for fermentation and flavor development.

The nature of infection highlights the importance of cleanliness and proper sanitation practices throughout the brewing process. By effectively managing these factors, brewers can minimize the risk of infection and maintain the desired flavor profile of their beer. Recognizing the signs of infection is also crucial for quality control, as infected beers not only taste different but can also be unpalatable to consumers.