One of the best compliments that a homebrewer can get is having her/his beer compared favorably to a well-respected commercial example. Scoring that praise takes more than great flavor, though; the beer has to look good, too. Clarity is a big factor, but head retention is arguably even more important. A flat, lifeless beer is anything but impressive, while a thick, rocky layer of foam invites indulgence. But that pretty head is not merely ornamental—it opens up the aroma and enhances your ability to smell the beer. It also keeps the beer fresh on your palate as you drink.
Dress for Success
If your beer isn’t making the best first impression, the problem might have more to do with the glass than the beer itself. Poor rinsing can leave glassware coated with a thin film of soap. Look closely, and you might see a light haze, or it may be virtually invisible. But soap will sabotage any foam your beer tries to raise. Before you make recipe or process changes, your first step should be to thoroughly clean your glasses using a non-detergent cleanser such as OxiClean.
The right glassware can also make a difference. Good quality glasses are often etched at the bottom to provide nucleation points for bubbles to form. This boost in foam production can help build a head on your beer and keep it there.