Founders Dirty Bastard Ale

Scotch Ale is also known as Wee Heavy, a name derived from the late 1800s when Scottish brewers commonly sold their strong ale in small 6-ounce “nips” or “wee” bottles. Scotch Ale is heavy and stronger than Scottish Ale in alcohol, is very malty and is fairly full-bodied, with color ranging from copper to dark brown with a tan head. Very rich malt aromas and flavors evoke a caramel, nutty character. Some examples may have suggestions of roasty flavors and smoke.

Brewers may purposely add a peaty quality to Scotch Ale, though there’s no historical precedent for doing so. Hops are mild in this style, and a clean, smooth alcohol quality provides balance to the big sweet malts and adds a dimension of warmth and complexity. Due to its strength, some have called Scotch Ale the barley wine of Scotland, but this strong ale is not to be confused with English Barley Wine.