American Pale Ale

Introduction – by Firkin Ron

The term beer style refers to a broad set of descriptors used to differentiate and categorize types of beers. Descriptors such as color, flavor, strength, ingredients, production method, recipe, history, and origin create the framework for establishing a beer style.

And almost any time you buy a beer, the beer lists its style on the packaging. Why? To provide the buyer with a basic preview and understanding of the beer’s look, smell, taste and drinkability.

Today there are hundreds of documented beer styles. Furthermore, a handful of organizations created their own unique classifications. However, the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) provides one of the most commonly used set of style guidelines.

This week’s beer style overview features the American Pale Ale.

American Pale Ale – by Owen Ogletree

In the late 1970s, Sierra Nevada Brewing founder Ken Grossman hatched the goal of making an English-inspired pale ale with American hops. Grossman’s early test batches made him fall in love with the resiny, citrusy hop known as Cascade, and his Sierra Nevada Pale Ale that was released in 1981 invigorated the emerging craft beer movement and helped Americans finally appreciate hops.

American Pale Ale - Beer Style OverviewAn American Pale Ale Classic

With an ABV of 4.5-6.2%, American Pale Ales are less robust than American IPAs but still offer moderate notes of biscuit, toast and fragrant dry-hopping. In contrast to classic English Pale Ales, APAs possess lighter colors, New World hop profiles, fewer esters and more restrained (or completely absent) caramel malt character. I still adore the uncomplicated elegance and drinkability of this pioneering style. What’s one of the best APAs you’ve ever enjoyed?

American Pale Ale - Beer Style OverviewGot a favorite?

 

About Owen Ogletree

Owen is founder/editor of Brewtopia LLC. In addition, he is columnist for Southern Brew News and Beer Connoisseur Magazine, lecturer at Knoxville’s Brewing & Distilling Center, founder/director of the Atlanta Cask Ale Tasting and Classic City Brew Fest, and a BJCP National Beer Judge. Owen has also served as a beer judge at the Great American Beer Festival and the Great British Beer Festival.