A distinctive quality of these ales is that their yeast undergoes an aging process (often for years) in bulk storage or through bottle conditioning, which contributes to a rich, wine-like and often sweet oxidation character. Old ales are copper-red to very dark in color. Complex estery character may emerge.
English-Style Old Ale
Category: Strong Ales
Food Pairings
- Roast Beef and Lamb
- Double Gloucester
- Spiced Plum Walnut Tart
Commercial Examples
- Irish Walker, Olde Hickory Brewing
- Heini's Hooch, The Church Brew Works
- Heini's Good Cheer, Roundabout Brewery
Appearance
Color
Copper-Red to Very Dark
Clarity
Opaque
Carbonation (Visual)
Slow to Medium Rising Bubbles
Flavor/Aroma
Alcohol
Noticeable to Hot
Hop
Hop aroma and flavor are not perceived to medium. Hop bitterness is minimal but evident.
Malt
A malty and sometimes caramel-like sweetness may be evident.
Esters
Fruit (Varies)
Phenols
Not common to style.
Fermentation By-Products
Diacetyl is acceptable at very low levels.
Sensations
Body
Moderate to Mouth-Coating
Carbonation
Low to Medium
Finish Length
Long
Attenuation
Medium
Ingredients
Hops
Kent Goldings
Malt
Pale, Chocolate, Black Patent
Water
Varies
Yeast
Ale, Brettanomyces possible
