Strong ale

Strong Ale (also known as Old Ale, Stock Ale and Winter Warmer) is a version of Pale Ale and a top-fermented strong beer . The average alcohol content of the beers ranges from 5.5–7.5%. Very strong versions of American Strong Ales even reach an alcohol content of up to 25%, but most types are no stronger than a Barley Wine .

taste

The taste of the strong ales is powerful, spicy and mostly malty sweet. They also take on a small degree of fruitiness. These beers can be improved by years of conditioning ( maturation ) and in some cases they also get a sherry-like note. The ale is also considered pleasantly warming, which explains the name Winter Warmer.

Appearance

The color of the strong ale ranges from light amber to very dark red-brown. Most species are rather dark. Age and oxidation can further darken the beer. The crown of the beer appears in a moderate to low creamy color, which is influenced by the alcohol content and the age of the beer.

species

English Strong Ale

This rich and complex beer is often bottled unfiltered and has an average alcohol content of 5.5–7.5%.

American Strong Ale

These beers can have alcohol levels from 7 to 25%. Some types are aged in barrels and / or are similar to Barley Wine .

Belgian Strong Ale

This ale is very tasty despite the average high alcohol content (8–13%). This is because the rock sugar, which is often consumed , can convert more residual sugar into alcohol.