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Great American Restaurants Pale Ale

Jun 222013

Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 5.5%
Brewed By Sweetwater Tavern & Brewery

Virginia
USA
North America

http://www.greatamericanrestaurants.com/sweetwater/merrifield/

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American-Style Pale Ale Traits

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Beer Style Description

American pale ales range from deep golden to copper in color. The style is characterized by fruity, floral and citrus-like American-variety hop character producing medium to medium-high hop bitterness, flavor, and aroma. Note that the ―traditional style of this beer has its origins with certain floral, fruity and citrus-like American hop varietals. One or more of these hop characters is the perceived end, but may be a result of the skillful use of hops of other national origins. American pale ales have medium body and low to medium maltiness. Low caramel character is allowable. Fruity-ester flavor and aroma should be moderate to strong. Diacetyl should be absent or present at very low levels. Chill haze is allowable at cold temperatures. There is some overlap in color between American pale ale and American amber ale. The American pale ale will generally be cleaner, have a less caramel malt profile, less body, and often more finishing hops.

Alcohol By Volume Range

4.5-6.2

IBU's Range

30-45

Aroma

Usually moderate to strong hop aroma from dry hopping or late kettle additions of American hop varieties. A citrus hop character is very common, but not required. Low to moderate maltiness supports the hop presentation, and may optionally show small amounts of specialty malt character (bread, toasty, biscuit). Fruity esters vary from moderate to none. No diacetyl. Dry hopping (if used) may add grassy notes, although this character should not be excessive.

Appearance

Pale golden to deep amber. Moderately large white to off-white head with good retention. Generally quite clear, although dry-hopped versions may be slightly hazy.

Flavor

Usually a moderate to high hop flavor, often showing a citrus American hop character (although other hop varieties may be used). Low to moderately high clean malt character supports the hop presentation, and may optionally show small amounts of specialty malt character (bread, toasty, biscuity). The balance is typically towards the late hops and bitterness, but the malt presence can be substantial. Caramel flavors are usually restrained or absent. Fruity esters can be moderate to none. Moderate to high hop bitterness with a medium to dry finish. Hop flavor and bitterness often lingers into the finish. No diacetyl. Dry hopping (if used) may add grassy notes, although this character should not be excessive.

Mouthfeel

Medium-light to medium body. Carbonation moderate to high. Overall smooth finish without astringency often associated with high hopping rates.