on getting our facts straight:

[aruan]

from the New York City Beer Guide: Wicked Spectrum of Beers:

"The tastebuds that concentrate on sweet are located at the front of the mouth and pick up the malt tastes in the beer. Bitter tastebuds are located in the back which emphasize the hop characteristics. The aftertaste is also an important factor in beer tasting. The lingering taste should be pleasing, not sour or harsh."

for both you physiology ninjas and beer connoseurs alike.