Pale ale is a type of beer that is characterised by its light, golden colour and medium body. It is a popular style of beer that has a long and storied history, and has undergone a number of changes over the years. Here is everything you need to know about the pale ale beer style, including its history, characteristics, and some fun facts:
- The history of pale ale:
Pale ale is thought to have originated in the 18th century in England. It was created using a new type of pale malt that was made from malted barley that was dried using coke, a type of coal. The use of pale malt allowed brewers to create a beer that was lighter in colour than the dark, brown ales that were popular at the time. The lighter colour of pale ale was achieved by using pale malt and by adding hops earlier in the brewing process, which resulted in a less hoppy, smoother flavour.
- The characteristics of pale ale:
Pale ales are known for their light, golden colour and medium body. They are usually made with pale malt, which gives them their light colour, and hops, which give them a moderate bitterness and aroma. Pale ales generally have an alcohol content of 4-6% ABV.
In terms of flavour, pale ales are usually balanced, with a blend of malt and hop flavours. They may have a slight fruitiness or citrusy aroma and a moderate to strong bitterness.
- The different types of pale ale:
There are several different types of pale ale, each with its own unique characteristics and flavours. Some of the most popular types of pale ale include:
- English pale ale: This type of pale ale is characterised by its malty, biscuit-like flavour and lower hop bitterness compared to other pale ales. It is usually amber or copper in colour and has a medium to full body.
- American pale ale: This type of pale ale is characterised by its strong, citrusy and piney hop flavours, and moderate to high bitterness. It is usually golden to amber in colour and has a medium to full body.
- India pale ale (IPA): This type of pale ale is characterised by its strong, hoppy flavour and high bitterness. It is usually amber to copper in colour and has a medium to full body.
- Session pale ale: This type of pale ale is characterised by its low alcohol content, usually around 4-5% ABV, and lower hop bitterness compared to other pale ales. It is usually golden to amber in colour and has a medium to full body.
- Fun facts about pale ale:
- Pale ale is thought to have originated in the 18th century in England.
- Pale ale was created using a new type of pale malt that was made from malted barley that was dried using coke, a type of coal.
- The lighter colour of pale ale was achieved by using pale malt and by adding hops earlier in the brewing process, which resulted in a less hoppy, smoother flavour.
- There are several different types of pale ale, including English, American, IPA, and Session pale ale.
- Pale ales are known for their light, golden colour and medium body, and have a moderate to strong bitterness and a blend of malt and hop flavours.
That's all folks!
