An herb and spice beer is a lager or ale that contains flavors derived from flowers, roots, seeds or certain fruits or vegetables. Typically the hop character is low, allowing the added ingredient to shine through. The appearance, mouthfeel and aromas vary depending on the herb or spice used. This beer style encompasses innovative examples as well as traditional holiday and winter ales.
Herb and Spice Beer
Category: Specialty Beers
Food Pairings
- Varies
- Varies
- Varies
Commercial Examples
- NoDajito, NoDa Brewing Co.
- Midas Touch, Dogfish Head Brewing Co.
- Good Juju, Left Hand Brewing Co.
Appearance
Color
Any range of color depending on the underlying style
Clarity
Varies
Carbonation (Visual)
Varies
Flavor/Aroma
Alcohol
Varies
Hop
Hop aroma is not essential, but may be evident at low levels and should not dominate over the herb or spice character
Malt
Varies
Esters
Can be present.
Phenols
Can be present
Sensations
Body
Varies
Carbonation
Low to High
Finish Length
Varies
Attenuation
Medium - High
Ingredients
Hops
Varies
Malt
Varies
Water
Varies
Yeast
Lager or Ale
