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.
Characteristics: Malty, caramel, dark fruit, earthy, full-bodied
ABV range: 6.5-10% IBU: 20-35
Popular Scotch Ale brands: Orkney Skull Splitter, Belhaven Wee Heavy, Oskar Blues Old Chub Scotch Ale, Pike Brewing Kilt Lifter Scotch Ale, Founders Dirty Bastard Ale, Great Divide Claymore Scotch Ale, AleSmith Wee Heavy, the Duck-Rabbit Wee Heavy
Serving Temperature: Cellar, 55-57°
Cheese Pairing Ideas: Aged and smoked cheeses, Asiago, Gruyère
Food Pairing Ideas: : Roast or grilled beef, roast lamb, game, pork, grilled or smoked salmon, French onion soup, deli sandwiches