American Amber Ale
- Recipes:
- 13,646
- BJCP 2021:
- 19A
- Era:
- Craft
- Origin:
- North America
- Fermentation:
- Top
- Color:
- Amber
- Strength:
- Normal
- Taste:
- Balanced
Profile
American Amber Ale presents a harmonious blend of malt and hops, striking a balance that showcases the characteristics of both. This style has its roots in the microbrewery movements of the late 20th century, an American take on the traditional amber ales found in English pubs. As with many American craft beer styles, it diverges from its old-world relatives by incorporating more assertive hop profiles reflective of American hop varietals.
In appearance, American Amber Ales exhibit a spectrum of colors ranging from light copper to reddish-brown hues. They present a clear to slightly hazy body topped by respectable off-white to cream-colored foam that promises a certain richness. The visual appeal speaks to the depth and variety within the malts used in brewing these medium-bodied beers. The flavor and aroma profile accentuates both malt complexity and hop nuances. Malt-oriented palates will appreciate the notes of caramel, toasted bread, or nuttiness underpinning each sip while hop aficionados are greeted with floral, piney or citrus aromas typical of American hops leading into complementary flavors that may impart a mild to moderate bitterness. The finish leans toward dryness but retains enough malt sweetness to keep the experience balanced and appealing across a wide range of drinkers. Due to its versatile nature, it can be thought of as more approachable than an IPA for some, yet more engaging than your run-of-the-mill pale ale for others – occupying a flavorful middle ground.
Specifications
Alcohol
Specification
4.5 – 6.2 %
In Database
4.2 < 5.4 < 6.6 %
Bitterness
Specification
25 – 40 IBU
In Database
19 < 32 < 46 IBU
Color
Specification
20 – 33 EBC
10 – 17 SRM
In Database
16 < 26 < 36 EBC
8 < 13 < 19 SRM
Original Extract
Specification
11.2 – 14.7 °P
1.045 – 1.060 OG
In Database
10.4 < 13.2 < 16.4 °P
1.042 < 1.054 < 1.068 OG
Final Gravity
Specification
2.6 – 3.8 °P
1.010 – 1.015 FG
In Database
1.7 < 3.3 < 4.8 °P
1.007 < 1.013 < 1.019 FG
