Pale ale

Pale ale is a type of beer that uses a top-fermenting yeast and predominantly pale malt. It is one of the world's most popular beer styles. The higher proportion of pale malts results in a lighter color. The term "pale ale" first appeared around 1703 for beers made from malts dried with high-carbon coke, which resulted in a lighter color than other beers popular at that time. Different brewing practices and hop levels have resulted in a range of taste and strength within the pale ale category.

History

The term "pale ale" originally denoted an ale that had been brewed from pale malt. The pale ales of the early 18th century were lightly hopped and quite different from today's pale ales. By the mid-18th century, pale ale was mostly brewed with copper hops. The beer was often referred to as "bitter" or "pale ale bitter" to differentiate it from other less hoppy beers.

Types of Pale Ale

There are several types of pale ale, including India Pale Ale, American Pale Ale, and English Pale Ale. Each type has its own unique characteristics and brewing methods.

India Pale Ale

India Pale Ale, or IPA, is a hoppy beer style within the broader category of pale ale. The style of beer is characterized by a strong hop flavor and high alcohol content.

American Pale Ale

American Pale Ale, or APA, is a style of pale ale developed in the United States around 1980. APAs are generally around 5% abv with significant quantities of American hops, typically Cascade.

English Pale Ale

English Pale Ale is a style of beer which is fermented at higher temperatures than lager. It has a strong hop flavor and a slightly sweet maltiness.

Brewing Process

The brewing process for pale ale is similar to that for other types of beer, but with a greater proportion of pale malts. The malts are soaked in water to activate the enzymes that convert the grain's starches into sugars. The mixture is then boiled with hops for flavor and aroma. After boiling, the wort is cooled, yeast is added, and fermentation begins.

See Also

• Beer
• Ale
• India Pale Ale
• American Pale Ale
• English Pale Ale