The English Pale Ale style has evolved over the years from the originals brewed in Derby, Lincolnshire, and Burton-on-Trent. Burton’s high-sulfate water had significant influence in the beer’s aroma and flavor; enough to persuade many pale ale brewers elsewhere to try to “Burtonize” their brewing water to achieve the same mineral content. Neither the water nor other influencing factors (such as malts) could exactly duplicate those of 1700s-1800s Burton, and so differences in the style evolved. Today, English-style pale ales are commonly characterized by a golden to copper color, with bready malt and earthy hop aromas. On the palate, Pale and Crystal malts and earthy, bitter English hop character are generally perceived to deliver a smooth mouth-feel and balanced flavors – especially compared to the usually more hop-forward American Pale Ale style – contributing to the high approachability of English Pale Ale.
Characteristics: Balanced, caramel, earthy, medium-bodied
ABV range: 4.5- 6.5% IBU: 25-45
Popular English Pale Ale brands: Fuller’s London Pride, Samuel Smith’s Old Brewery Pale Ale, Samuel Smith’s Organically Produced Ale, Black Sheep Ale, Tetley’s English Ale, Boddingtons Pub Ale, Old Speckled Hen, Bass Ale, Pike Pale Ale Heirloom Amber, Firestone Walker Double Barrel Ale, Flying Fish Extra Pale Ale, Great Divide Denver Pale Ale, Saranac Pale Ale
Serving Temperature: Cellar, 55-57°
Cheese Pairing Ideas: Asiago, mild Cheddar, Derby, Lancashire, Leicester
Food Pairing Ideas: Burgers, Shepherds Pie, shellfish, fish and chips, lamb, fried foods, pizza, chicken, pork
