Beverage Science

Beverage Science is a scientific deep-dive into the liquid side of the culinary world. This category features articles that explore the molecular chemistry, physics, and production of everything we drink.

Whether it’s the carbonation chemistry of soft drinks, the biochemical aging of wine, or the IBU mathematics of craft beer, CulinaryLore explores the “why” behind the glass. The investigations cover:

The Surprising Science of Beer Relaxation: Discover the new and emerging science that shows the chemistry behind the scientific fact that beer is more relaxing than wine and liquor .

Fermentation and Aging Myths: Debunking the high-production theater of wine aging and the truth about bottle shelf-life.

Stop relying on marketing jargon and discover the granular, scientific truth behind the beverages you consume every day.

The Chemistry of Soda Syrup: Why Powdered Flavorings Actually Work

by
SodaStream Kool-Aid flavored syrup and other branded flavors.

Making soda at home with a SodaStream has become quite popular. Although SodaStream offers soda syrup flavors you can purchase, and there are a few other avenues for purchasing syrups, making homemade syrups is quite easy and can offer hundreds of creative options. Instead of artificial flavors, you can use real ingredients to make your own homemade syrup.  But, what if you just want to make a quick and easy fruit-flavored soda similar to a grocery store brand, and you don’t care about using “real” ingredients? You’ll be amazed how easy it is. Here is how to make soda syrup with Kool-Aid for Your SodaStream.

Why Do Wine Bottles Have a Concave Bottom?

by
wine bottles stored upside down showing indentation on bottom called punt or dimple

Most wine bottles have a deep, concave indentation on their bottom, especially more expensive ones like high-quality Bordeaux or Burgundy bottles. This concavity is not just a bow to tradition, left over from when all bottles were made individually by hand. In other words, it is not just decoration, as some sources attest. The indentation on … Read more

Does Bottled Whiskey Get Better With Age?

by
Bottles of whiskey and other liquors sitting on shelves

Whiskey lovers often save expensive bottles for years, waiting for the “perfect” moment to pull the cork. The assumption is that, like a fine Bordeaux, the whiskey will continue to mature into a smoother, more well-rounded elixir over time. However, this is a common case of culinary mistaken identity. While it is true that not … Read more