Introducing: The American Pale Ale
American Pale Ales cover a variety of beers, and in many ways are one of the most common craft brews around. Many breweries use some version of an American Pale Ale as their flagship beer, due to their high drinkability. Usually pretty balanced between malty and hoppy, with a light body and coloration, it can appeal to a wide range of drinkers.
Based on a British style of ale, the American variation tends to be hoppier while it’s UK predecessor focuses more on the malty qualities. Usually crisp or clean to drink, the American Pale Ale can be almost anything however: from a hoppy bitterness to a mild floral taste, with possible fruit qualities that can be dominant or subtle.
To sum up in common-speak, an American Pale Ale can vary greatly based on the brewery. They will be light bodied (not thick or syrupy), usually crisp, with a good balance of bitter and sweet. Lower alcohol content (roughly 5% ABV) makes them a great summer beer for sipping in the sun. A really fun style to explore, due to the variety that each brewery brings to it’s take on it, and one of my new favorite styles.
C.K.
Pint Half Full 