Although originally inspired by European—especially British—ales, American craft brewed ales have developed their own character. Compared to their European cousins, they are usually maltier and more aggressively hopped.

American pale ales are likely to be more heavily hopped than their British cousins. Toasted caramel sweetness is usually subordinate to a brisk bitterness and aroma of American hops. While British pale ales tend to have a grassier aroma, American pale ales have a more fruity and citrusy aroma. The American IPA is a stronger, more fragrant version of the pale ale. Imperial or Double IPAs are a step above regular IPA swith substantially more hop flavor, hop aroma and alcohol.

Amber ales are moderate strength ales that were created as an alternative to the American light pilsners that dominated the market for over a century. These ales have a caramel maltiness and a moderate degree of hoppiness. Red ales are similar, but have a burnt sugar quality and are more heavily hopped.