What is ale beer? A comprehensive explanation of its characteristics, famous brands, and what dishes it goes well with!

エールビールとは?特徴や有名銘柄、よく合う料理まで徹底解説
Yoko, a European beer lover

in the first placeWhat is "Ale Beer"??
I've heard of it, but I honestly don't know...

Someone please explain it to me kindly!

Have you ever felt that way?

If you like beer, you've probably heard of it at least once."Yell"The word. In factA completely different kind of beer to lagerAnd the taste and aroma are completely different.

Author: Myako

This time,Ale basicsfrom,Differences from Lager,Representative brands of Europe, and evenA perfect snackWe will introduce you to the charms of ale from Europe, the home of ale.

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What kind of beer is ale, roughly?

エールタイプのビール
Examples of ale beers

The characteristics of ale beer are as follows:A top-fermented beer with a rich aroma and full-bodied flavor, fermented at close to room temperature.is.

It has a strong hop aroma and fruity flavor, and its unique character stands out more than that of a lager.The balance of bitterness and sweetness varies.Common styles of craft beeris.

※Top fermentationWhat is "Jomen Hakko"?
A type of fermentation where yeast floats on the surface (top) of the liquid during fermentation.This is what I mean.

I will explain the details below.

What does the "ale" in ale beer mean?

The word "ale" comes from Old English ealu which in turn comes from Proto-Germanic alu- It is believed to date back to

These are allA fermented malt beverage (the precursor to beer)was referring to.

Since the Middle Ages, to distinguish it from "beer" to which hops are added,A traditional malt beverage without hopscame to be called "Ale."

Where did ale come from?

イギリス

Ale isOriginating from the UKis.

In medieval England, as mentioned above, it was a fermented malt drink.Ale without hopswas the mainstream and was brewed at home in each household.

At that time, ale was a drink that was drunk immediately and had a low shelf life.Later, the addition of hops improved the flavor and preservation properties, and the beer style evolved into what we know today..

Nowadays, ale is used as a broad category name for "top-fermented beer," and a wide variety of ale beer is produced not only in England, but also in Belgium, the United States, Canada, and other countries.

Taste characteristics of ale beer

Ale beer has the following characteristics:

  • Fruity scent

    It is characterized by an ester aroma (scent reminiscent of banana, apple and nuts) produced by yeast.


  • Strong and full-bodied flavor

    It has a sweet malt flavor and roasted taste, and a long aftertaste.


  • The bitterness is just right.

    Many of them have a well-balanced hop flavor and are very satisfying to drink.


  • Taste changes with temperature

    The aroma and flavor will come out when the temperature rises slightly, so the key is not to chill it too much.

In the following articleBeer tastes better when drunk warmWe are introducing Yale as:

The difference between ale and lager!

ビール飲み比べ
The pilsner on the left is a type of lager. Pale ale and Weizen are types of ale.

The difference between "ale" and "lager" in one word...

The fermentation process and flavor direction are completely different!

The following is a detailed explanation.

itemAleLager
Fermentation MethodTop fermentation(Bubbles rise from the top)
Ferment at room temperature (15-24℃)
Bottom fermentation(Ferment quietly at the bottom)
Fermented at low temperature (7-13℃)
Fermentation periodShort (a few days to a week)Long (several weeks to a month or more)
Types of yeastAle yeastLager yeast
Taste characteristicsFruity, aromatic, full-bodiedRefreshing, light, and easy to swallow
Representative typesIPA, Pale Ale, Stout, Belgian AlePilsner, Helles, Dortmunder, Bock
historyHas existed since ancient times (BC~)Relatively new (since the 15th century, of Bavarian origin)

How would you describe it?

  • Ale
    Common in craft beerRich aroma and strong flavorThis is sure to appeal to wine lovers too.

  • Lager
    "Beer that's best served ice cold" is sold at supermarkets in Japan.Emphasis on smoothness.
Author: Myako

If I remember roughly,Ale = aromatic beer, Lager = smooth beerThat's it!

Which one you prefer is entirely a matter of personal preference, but in Germany and the Czech Republic, for example, lagers are overwhelmingly the most popular.

The Basics of Beer StyleThis is explained in detail in the article below.

Famous European ale brands

Below are two European ale beers that receive particularly high hits on this blog.

Both are the birthplace of ale.British beerThat's right.

Fuller's London Pride

A classic beer from Fuller's, a long-established brewery representing London.English Pale Ale.

A classic in British pubs!
Moderate carbonation and smooth drinking experience,A classic ale that you'll want to drink again and againis.

イギリス・LONDON PRIDE(ロンドンプライド)
LONDON PRIDE
Alcohol content4.7%
Release year1959
colorCopper color
TasteA perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, with a rich, fruity flavor.
FeaturesFuller's Brewery's signature beer, with a London flair

More informationThis articlefart

\The first one is a traditional taste!/

Bass Pale Ale

A historic bottle known as the world's first "pale ale.".
It continues to be supported by beer fans not only in Europe but all over the world.Legendary British Aleis.

Bass Pale Ale
source
Alcohol content5.1%
Founded1777
colorGolden
TasteThe aroma of hops is strong, and the balance of sweetness and bitterness of malt is exquisite.
FeaturesThe world's first pale ale, with a unique richness and sharpness due to hard water

More informationThis articlefart

Author: Myako

Unfortunately, this product is currently difficult to obtain in Japan.
That's such a shame...

So if you want to try pale ale, the first one is the one above.Fuller's London Pride is recommendedYes ♪

A perfect snack to go with ale beer

イギリス伝統料理フィッシュ&チップス
Speaking of foods that go well with ale beer!
Traditional British dish fish and chips

To match the body and aroma of ale, try the following:Perfect for strong flavors and fragrant dishesis.

  • Fish and chips
    A staple in London pubs. The sourness of the tartar goes well with the maltiness of the ale.

  • Cheese platter
    The aroma is especially pronounced when paired with stronger flavors such as cheddar or blue cheese.

  • Sausages and roast beef
    The flavor of the meat and the richness of the beer are a perfect match.

  • Nuts and dried fruits
    Recommended for when you want a light snack. Perfect with the aroma of pale ale.
Author: Myako

However, ale beerA beer that can be enjoyed on its ownis.

Especially British ales (London Pride, Bass Pale Ale, etc.)It has a well-balanced malty sweetness and mild bitterness, making it satisfying to drink even without a meal.Yo!

Summary: Ales are beers to enjoy for their aroma and depth

Ales have a rich aroma and depth of flavor that lagers lack, allowing you to experience the depth of beer.
In particular, Fuller's London Pride and Bass Pale Ale are must-try drinks for anyone wanting to discover the appeal of ale beer.

The enjoyment is even greater if you sip it slowly, taking in the aroma and not letting it get too cold.

Why not take a step into the world of ale beer?

Let's share this post !
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