The Scotch ale is overwhelmingly malty, with a rich and dominant sweet malt flavor and aroma. A caramel character is often part of the profile. Some examples feature a light smoked peat flavor. This style could be considered the Scottish version of an English-style barley wine. Overly smoked versions would be considered specialty examples.
Scotch Ale/Wee Heavy
Category: Scottish-Style Ales
Food Pairings
- Variety of Meats and Game
- Pungent Cheeses
- Creamy Desserts with Fruit
Commercial Examples
- Wee Heavy, Dry Dock Brewing Co.
- Way Heavy, Pizza Port Brewing Co.
- Real Heavy, Real Ale Brewing Co.
Appearance
Color
Light Reddish Brown to Very Dark
Clarity
Clear
Carbonation (Visual)
Medium Rising Bubbles
Flavor/Aroma
Alcohol
Noticeable to Hot
Hop
Hop aroma and flavor are not perceived. Hop bitterness is low but perceptible
Malt
Dominated by a smooth, balanced sweet maltiness. Will also have a medium degree of malty, caramel-like aroma and flavor
Esters
Plums, Raisin, Dried Fruit. A peaty/smoky character may be evident at low levels
Phenols
Not common to style
Fermentation By-Products
Yeast characters such as diacetyl and sulfur are acceptable at very low levels
Sensations
Body
Mouth-Coating
Carbonation
Medium
Finish Length
Medium
Attenuation
Medium
Ingredients
Hops
Kent Goldings
Malt
British Pale Ale, Crystal, Honey, Pale Chocolate, Munich and even Roasted Barley
Water
Soft Water (occasionally)
Yeast
Ale
