When beer is involved, everyone wants to get behind his or her favorite flavor profile. Throwing around words like “toasty,” “fruity,” “malty,” and “hoppy” is fun for suds aficionados and novices alike.

The point is to have a good time while figuring out what tastes good. Here’s how to throw a party everyone will remember long after the final game score:

• Set out clear, plastic disposable punch cups or plenty of 4- to 6-ounce glasses. Rocks, old-fashioned, whiskey, or wine glasses work (you need enough room to sniff!). Instruct guests to sample rather than gulp.
• A simple tasting might feature just two contrasting beer styles, such as IPAs and pilsners. Serve different labels side by side during each quarter of the game.
• A complex half-time event requires participants to grade four or five different beers and make tasting notes. Pour milder beers first, followed by increasingly robust beers. (Don’t let the color fool you; darker beers are sometimes easier to drink than higher alcohol, hoppy IPAs.)
• Find out something about the beers to share with tasters. Encourage discussion. Have drinkers comment on each beer’s color, aroma and body. Provide them with a pen and small notebook to record their thoughts. Stage a vote.
• Pairing beer with cheese makes things more interesting. Begin with milder beers and cheeses, such as Boursin. Progress to more intense beers and cheeses, such as chèvres and munsters.
• Mix Mexican beers with chips, salsa, guacamole and made-to-order quesadillas. German beers go with meaty deli platters, assorted mustards and pretzels. American beers speak to sliders, pigs in blankets, chili and pizza.
• Score big at evening’s end. Send guests home with a bottle of their favorite brew.

Bonus Points: Grab our delicious Onion Ale Soup recipe to serve at your beer tasting party!