Tasting

How do you order a beer in Barcelona? With "una caña" — a small draft pour, usually 0.2 liters, served in a glass without a handle. The size isn't entirely standardized across regions. If you want more, in Barcelona you order a "mediana," which holds 0.33 liters, or a "tanque" at half a liter.

There's a reason for the small serving. In the heat, beer warms up quickly, so it's better to order a small, ice-cold glass more often than a large one that sits on the table going flat and warm. The beer arrives very cold, the foam head is low, and the glass fogs up instantly.

What does Estrella Damm taste like? A pale golden color, a gentle aroma of bread and grain, low bitterness, and a dry, smooth finish. According to the brewery, the brand is still brewed today to August Damm's original recipe. Moritz offers a similar profile, often with a touch more body.

If you want to taste the difference, you'll find both at any bar. Alongside them are the craft beers — Edge Brewing's Hoptimista, for instance, an India Pale Ale with pronounced hop bitterness. At brewpubs like Garage Beer Co., they're poured fresh straight from the tank.

For tasting, a tulip glass suits the IPA, while the slender caña glass suits the lager. The lager is best enjoyed fresh off the tap, while the IPA can be allowed to warm slightly so its aroma opens up.