The Science of Beer - Nucleation
When a beer is poured, carbonation rises to the top forming a layer of bubbles also known as the head, foam, Kräusen. These serve a specific purpose towards the enjoyment of your drink. They preview flavors and aromas to wet the pallet, activate salivary glands and prepare the senses for the imbibing experience.
This is Nucleation. This bubble party sitting atop your glass is the formation of the active compounds in the beer. Ever eaten a Ghost pepper & felt the heat? Or a cool feeling with peppermint? It's the same with nucleation.
Glassware nowadays can be customized with an etching on the bottom. The nucleated glasses have rough surfaces from the etching that causes bubbles to collect. When a sufficient number of bubbles has gathered, they release and drift towards the top of the glass forming a head. This can help sustain a fuller beer head and enhance flavors for a longer, more enjoyable drink.
