Which is an essential step in washing a beer glass to ensure it is beer clean?

To ensure that a beer glass is "beer clean," it is crucial to remove any residues that could affect the aroma, flavor, and overall experience of the beer. Rinsing the glass with cold water and using a chlorine sanitizer is a vital step in this process because it effectively eliminates any lingering bacteria or contaminants that might interfere with the beer's characteristics.

Chlorine sanitizers work by providing a powerful disinfecting action that is essential in preparing glassware for serving beer. This step helps create an environment that preserves the full integrity of the beer’s flavors and aromas. Proper rinsing with cold water is important as it ensures that the glass is free of any soap residues or sanitizer that could otherwise spoil the beer.

The other options do not adequately focus on the specific needs for ensuring that a beer glass is clean in the context of serving beer. Soaking in hot soapy water for extended periods may not be as effective as rinsing and sanitizing because soap can leave residues that affect beer. Fat-based detergents are generally not recommended for cleaning glassware, especially for beer, as they can leave oily residues and introduce undesirable flavors. Finally, drying with a paper towel can risk lint or other particles clinging to the surface of the glass,