Nothing defines the Blonde Ale and Golden Ale styles better than the very approachable and highly drinkable characteristics that make them ideal for any occasion, in any season. With balanced characters and relatively low alcohol levels, Blonde Ales and Golden Ales share common flavor notes that impart a balance of malt sweetness and hop bitterness.
This style includes several ales that range in color from light blonde deep golden. Their common traits make Blonde and Golden ales terrific beers to introduce light lager lovers or pale lager drinkers to more flavorful craft beers and ultimately an entirely new beer-drinking world of flavor.
APPEARANCE
Color: Blonde and golden to deep golden-copper
Clarity: Kölsch-style beers are clear, while Blonde Ales and ESBs are clear to hazy
Head: White to off-white, fizzy to creamy and delicate to lasting
AROMA AND TASTE
Malts: Bready, sweet, and biscuity
Hops: Low to moderate aroma and flavor of Noble hop varieties
Yeast: Fruity esters generally low in Kölsch, moderate in Blonde
MOUTH-FEEL
Consistency: Smooth, crisp
Carbonation: Light to prickly
Body: Light to medium-full
Finish: Average to long