American Imperial Red Ale - CraftBeer.com
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Beer Styles

American Imperial Red Ale

The use of American hops in the American imperial red ale lends to the perception of medium hop bitterness, flavor and aroma. Coupled with a solid malt profile, this should be a beer with balance between hop bitterness and malt sweetness. This is another example of modern American brewers taking an established style and boosting the flavor. California brewers are credited with creating this innovative style.

Category: Strong Ales

Food Pairings

  • Corned Beef Hash
  • Mozzarella
  • Toffee Pudding

Glassware & Serving Temperature

Tulip
50-55 °F

Commercial Examples

Commercial Examples

Appearance

Color

Deep Amber to Dark Copper or Reddish Brown

Clarity

Slight Haze to Clear. Unfiltered versions: Hazy to Very Cloudy

Carbonation (Visual)

Medium Rising Bubbles

Flavor/Aroma

Alcohol

Mild to Noticeable

Hop

Hop aroma, flavor and bitterness are high but balanced, arising from any variety of hops

Malt

Medium to high caramel malt character is present

Esters

Medium.

Phenols

Not common to style

Sensations

Body

Mouth-Coating

Carbonation

Medium

Finish Length

Medium to Long

Attenuation

Medium

Ingredients

Hops

Varies

Malt

Varies

Water

Varies

Yeast

Ale

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