The University of Idaho Argonaut

Not all beer drinkers are drinking just to get drunk, but to enjoy beer for its flavor, look and aroma. 
Choosing a beer can be based on food choices and unique palates, along with the different flavors seasonal beers have to offer. Moveover wine, beer tasting is up and coming.

“It’s a different style of drinking,” said Adam Oster, a senior at the University of Idaho studying mechanical engineering. 
According to Stuart Scott, owner of Camas Prairie Winery, beer drinkers, unlike wine drinkers, have a more difficult time agreeing what tastes good.

After a panel of tasters tried six different winter beers, a general consensus was gathered. 
Winter’s Bourbon Cask Ale
Made by Anheuser-Busch, Winter Bourban Cask went over fairly well and was said to have a “thin and light but has good flavor.” Because of its thinness and lightness, it does not fit well into the traditional winter style beers. 
Winterhook

Made by Redhook, Winterhook was very well liked and described as floral scented, medium-bodied with moderate hops.
2 Below
By New Belgium, 2 Below was not as popular but still well liked. The malty flavor is sweet with an interesting after-taste.
Celebration Ale
Sierra-Nevada’s Celebration Ale was easily the most popular of the selection. 

Eckwright said the Celebration Ale is the one of his biggest winter beer sellers, with a slightly sweet and moderately hoppy flavor.  
Snow Cap
By Pyramid, Snow Cap was also well liked, though not to the extent of Celebration Ale.
It’s a little strong alone, but has a light hoppy flavor. 

“Snow Cap is Capone’s biggest seller and is available year-round in the Northwest,” said Jon-Paul Cardin, senior in civil engineering and bartender at Coeur d’ Alene restaurant, Capone’s. 
Cold Nose
The final beer of the selection, made by Laughing Dog brewery, Cold Nose was rated the worst. It has a burnt, chocolate-y coffee taste with a lot of bitterness.