How to host a memorable beer tasting party

Hosting a beer tasting party is a brilliant way to bring friends together and celebrate the craft of brewing. With our distinct heritage and diverse flavour profiles, Badger and Outland beers both offer the perfect foundation for an engaging and unique experience.

Here’s how you can set-up for a one-of-a-kind beer tasting event that leaves your guests buzzing with appreciation for our award-winning brews.

1. Curating the beer line-up

Start by selecting a range of beers that showcase the breadth of Badger and Outland’s offerings (ideally between 4-6 different beers), including a mix of classics and limited-edition brews to highlight the diversity the range has to offer. For example:

• From Badger, consider working from light to dark; starting with the golden, elderflower notes of the Golden Champion, moving onto the amber maltiness of the Fursty Ferret, and finishing off with the rich, complex taste of Master Stoat (our coffee stout).
• From Outland, you might like to try something a bit lighter, like the crisp and refreshing (but unique) India Pale Lager, or perhaps a more traditional craft beer, like the West Coast IPA.

Whichever beers you go for, arrange the entire tasting progression from lightest to darkest, ensuring guests can appreciate subtle flavours before diving into richer profiles.

2. Creating a sensory set-up

Beer tasting is a multisensory experience, so design your space to amplify the atmosphere. Use earthy tones and natural elements, such as wooden platters and hop-inspired decorations, to echo the countryside charm tied to Badger’s Dorset roots. Outland’s more modern vibe can bring a slight contrast to the table—think, sleek glassware, natural black & white patterns, and colour pops.

Place glasses specific to beer types and brands on tasting stations, ranging from Badger’s ‘billy’ glass to Outland’s ‘club’ glass, with various design choices available.

3. Pair with delicious snacks

Food pairing can elevate the beer tasting experience, so offer a mix of complementary snacks designed to enhance the unique profiles of Badger and Outland beers!

For example, Badger’s Fursty Ferret pairs beautifully with aged cheddar and crackers, while Outland’s West Coast IPA goes nicely with pizza (especially one topped with pepperoni or salami!).

Consider using the beers as ingredients too. A bread baked with Tangle Foot or a cheese dip made with Outland’s India Pale Lager will add a creative touch to the beer tasting party.

4. Guide the tasting

Act as the evening’s beer ambassador. Share the story behind each brew, from Badger’s storied tradition of family brewing since 1777 to Outland’s adventurous spirit that pushes boundaries with more contemporary, hybrid brews. Encourage guests to note the aroma, appearance, flavour, and mouthfeel of each beer.

Provide a tasting card for each guest to jot down their impressions—this can spark engaging discussions and perhaps reveal surprising favourites (and ideas for future gifts!).

5. Add a fun twist

Why not add a competitive edge? Organise a blind tasting challenge where guests guess the type of beer based on taste and aroma alone. For the finale, create a beer-based trivia quiz. Focus on fun facts about the brewing processes, regional ingredients, or even quirky historical tidbits about Hall & Woodhouse and the Badger Brewery.

6. Send guests home with brews and great memories

As a thank-you, prepare a small take-home gift for your guests. A curated six-pack featuring your favourite Badger and Outland beers, paired with a handwritten card about your top recommendations, ensures the tasting adventure continues beyond the night.

By focusing on the charm of Badger’s classic brews and Outland’s modern creativity, your beer tasting party won’t just be another gathering—it will be a celebration of British brewing excellence. Cheers to that!

To get your party started, take a look at our wide selection of beers to buy online now!