Real ale is no longer the only type of beer you can enjoy. English IPA and pale ale are also great choices. If you’re not sure which to try, read this article. It will teach you more about what you should expect from these beers. But remember, they aren’t for everyone. The style should be paired with the beer’s flavor. Here’s how to tell if it’s a good choice for you.
Real ale
Real ale is the simplest and most accessible type of beer. This lager is naturally carbonated and made from traditional English ingredients. It is dispensed from a hand-pulled device known as a beer engine, which sucks the beer from a stainless steel or aluminum cask without the addition of secondary carbon dioxide gas. This makes it one of the most enjoyable types of beer. If you are in the mood for something a bit more complex, try a dark beer like IPA, or an English-style stout.
English pale ale
The English style of pale ale is called bitter beer. Its strength ranges from three to five percent alcohol by volume, and its colour varies from gold to dark amber. The British government has declared this style of beer a classic, and its popularity has grown over the years. This article explores the history of English pale ale and what to look for in a quality beer. Here are some tips to find the best English pale ale at a local pub.
English stout
Traditional interpretations are characterized by an alcohol content between 7% and 10% and a relatively low level of fruity esters. These beers typically exhibit a medium to high level of maltiness and are well-balanced by the alcohol. Diacetyl is usually absent or very low in these beers. Other characteristics of traditional English stout ales include an absence or low level of alcohol and an abundance of malt flavors and aromas.
English IPA
An English IPA has a distinct fruity aroma and flavor, and a low-to-moderate alcohol content. Hops contribute floral, fruity, and earthy notes, while malt adds a toasty, caramelized flavor. Though English IPAs share a common heritage with American IPAs, they differ in flavor and strength. English IPAs are proud of their balance between malt and hops, which results in a well-rounded flavor and aroma.
English dry stout
English dry stout ales are dark-colored, full-bodied beers with a medium to high alcohol content. This style is typically malty with a moderate level of hop aroma. Perceived malt flavor and aroma are low to moderate. Hop character is mild and fruity, and diacetyl is usually absent or at a very low level. Hops and malt flavors should balance each other and not overwhelm the beer’s overall flavor.