Beer can seem simple at first glance: it’s a combination of grain, hops, yeast and water. Yet small changes in ingredients and brewing techniques can create an incredible range of flavours, from crisp and refreshing to rich, fruity, sour or bitter.
In this interactive masterclass, zythologist (beer connoisseur) Joke Van Loon (Tasting Talks) takes you on a journey from the origins of brewing to the fundamentals of how beer is made—and how to enjoy it with confidence.
We’ll begin with a short look at the history of beer and how brewing evolved from accidental fermentation to a refined craft. From there, we’ll follow the brewing process step by step, using it as a guide to understand how each ingredient influences what ends up in your glass.
Through a curated tasting flight, we’ll explore:
How malt affects colour, sweetness, and body
How hops contribute bitterness and aroma
How yeast and fermentation create flavours ranging from clean and crisp to fruity, spicy, or sour
Along the way, you’ll taste a range of beer styles—from light and approachable to bold and expressive—each chosen to highlight a specific part of the brewing process. Styles will include, but not be limited to, Vienna Lager, Stout, IPA, Tripel and Sour.
Simple food pairings will accompany the beers to demonstrate how flavours interact and enhance one another.
This class is designed for both beginners and curious drinkers alike. No prior knowledge needed—just an interest in discovering how beer really works and how to enjoy it more fully.
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Joke Van Loon is a Belgian beer enthusiast with a degree in clinical psychology who had a practice in Antwerp for a decade. Her passion for all things brewing led her to becoming a certified Zythologist (aka beer sommelier) at the PIVA culinary school in Antwerp.
She moved to Toronto in 2025 and devoted herself fully to her studies in beer, creating Tasting Talks – a project that melds her fascination with the topic with her love for connecting people. Making beer culture fun, approachable and engaging, Joke aims to inspire creative tasting and exploring outside of one’s comfort zone. @tasting_talks
‘The world of beer is so much bigger than most people imagine, and I love creating welcoming spaces where they can learn, explore, discover new flavours, and connect with others over great beer.’
