Many are familiar with the concept of a wine tasting, but few have heard of a similar event involving one of the most readily consumed types of alcohol: beer.

The Graystone Wine Cellar, a banquet facility located at 544 S. Front St., is hosting its third beer tasting Friday at 6:30 p.m.

“Each tasting has a theme,” said Richard Seemueller, host of the event and member of the Master Brewers Association of the Americas, Cincinnati District. The theme for Friday’s tasting will be beers of the British Isles.

“I pick a wide range of beers that represent the theme,” he said. For Friday, Seemueller said he has chosen seven beers to represent the British Isles region.

Brian Johnson, owner of the Graystone, said the night will begin with an introduction to the theme and the history of British brewing from Seemueller.

“He will walk them through each of the beers and talk about the style and what to look for in the beer,” he said.

Seemueller said it’s helpful to understand a beer’s origin.

“I want to make sure people understand where the full flavor profile for each beer is coming from,” Seemueller said.

After a brief introduction, Seemueller will proceed to guide tasters through each of the beers and the proper way to taste them. Johnson said each style of beer has its own flavor, body and aroma that people should be looking for when tasting.

“For example, in a stout, people should look for a smoky, burnt underpinning, while in an IPA (India Pale Ale), people should taste a more hoppy flavor,” he said.

Both Johnson and Seemueller suggest that people come into the event with an open mind.

“This will burst bubbles of misconceptions about the way beers should look and taste,” Johnson said. “Dark beers are not always heavy and light beers are not always light in flavor or in alcohol.”

Seemueller agreed.

“People should know that there is a wide range of beers with different styles, flavors, colors and textures,” he said. “They are just as complex, if not more so, than wine.”

Following the tastings, the Graystone will cater a dinner.

“I try to serve food to go along with the theme of the night,” Johnson said.

This time, there will be dishes such as carved roast beef, but there will also be Graystone favorites such as the pecan chicken.

The event costs $36, which covers the cost of the tasting and dinner. Those wishing to attend the event must RSVP by either calling the Graystone at 614-228-2332 or by visiting the restaurant’s Facebook page.