ESB stands for “extra special bitter.” This style is known for its balance and the interplay between malt and hop bitterness. English pale ales display earthy, herbal English-variety hop character. Medium to high hop bitterness, flavor and aroma should be evident. The yeast strains used in these beers lend a fruitiness to their aromatics and flavor, referred to as esters. The residual malt and defining sweetness of this richly flavored and medium bodied.
English-Style Pale Ale (ESB)
Category: Pale Ales
Food Pairings
- Roasted Chicken, Fish and Chips
- English-Style Cheeses
- Maple Bread Pudding
Commercial Examples
- 5 Barrel Pale Ale, Odell Brewing Co.
- Royal Scandal, Peticolas Brewing Co.
- Moondog Ale, Great Lakes Brewing Co.
Appearance
Color
Gold to Copper
Clarity
Clear to Brilliant
Carbonation (Visual)
Slow Rising Bubbles
Flavor/Aroma
Alcohol
Mild
Hop
Hop flavor is medium to medium-high. Hop bitterness is medium to medium-high
Malt
Residual malt and defining sweetness is medium to medium-high
Esters
Fruity-ester and very low diacetyl flavors are acceptable, but should be minimized in this form of bitter
Phenols
Not common to style
Sensations
Body
Moderate
Carbonation
Low
Finish Length
Short
Attenuation
Medium - High
Ingredients
Hops
Kent Goldings
Malt
British Pale Ale, Crystal
Water
Some versions use medium to high sulfate
Yeast
Ale
