So what guidance can we offer a wine drinker ready to explore the joys of beer? Michael Jackson prepared a concise "Wine Lover's Guide to Beer" in his 1993 "Beer Companion." His suggestions:

Dry white: an authentic, hoppy Pilsner.

Gewürztraminer: a spicy, malty Vienna-style lager, or a darker Munich-style lager.

Champagne: a wheat beer.

Blush Zinfandel or pink champagne: a framboise (raspberry beer).

Cabernet Sauvignon: a fruity English-style ale, or an oaky American India pale ale.

Pinot Noir: a richer Scottish or Belgian ale.

Fino sherry: a lambic.

Amontillado sherry: a porter or dry stout.

Port: a dark Trappist ale, with some bottle-age.