Irish red ale

Irish Red Ale

Irish Red Ale

Alcohol by volume	4.0% - 6.0%
Color	Red
Style	Ale
IBU scale	20 - 28

Irish Red Ale is a style of ale that originated in Ireland. It is known for its reddish color and balanced flavor profile. This article will provide an overview of Irish Red Ale, including its history, brewing process, and notable examples.

History

Irish Red Ale has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century in Ireland. It was traditionally brewed by Irish brewers who aimed to create a beer with a distinct red hue. The red color was achieved by using a combination of malted barley and roasted barley, which imparted a reddish tint to the beer.

Brewing Process

The brewing process of Irish Red Ale involves several key steps. First, a base malt, typically pale malt, is mashed with specialty malts such as crystal malt and roasted barley. This combination of malts gives the beer its characteristic red color and adds complexity to its flavor.

After mashing, the wort is boiled and hops are added for bitterness and aroma. Irish Red Ale is known for its moderate hop bitterness, typically ranging from 20 to 28 International Bitterness Units (IBUs). The hop varieties used in brewing Irish Red Ale are often earthy and floral, complementing the malt character.

Following the boil, the wort is cooled and yeast is added for fermentation. Irish Red Ale is typically fermented with ale yeast at temperatures ranging from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius (59 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). The fermentation process takes approximately one to two weeks, after which the beer is carbonated and ready for packaging.

Notable Examples

There are several notable examples of Irish Red Ale available in the market. Some popular examples include:

• Smithwick's - A well-known Irish Red Ale with a smooth and malty flavor profile.
• Kilkenny Irish Cream Ale - Another popular Irish Red Ale that is known for its creamy texture and balanced taste.
• Murphy's Irish Red - A traditional Irish Red Ale with a rich caramel malt character and a slightly sweet finish.

See Also

• Ale
• Beer Styles