As the name suggests, this can be either a lager or ale with coffee added to boost flavor. While stouts and porters are popular base styles for coffee beer, many craft breweries are experimenting with other styles, like cream ales and India pale ales. Brewers may steep the beans in either water or beer to impart java flavor without adding acidity. Barrel-aged or wood-influenced versions may show signs of oxidation, including sherry notes and other advanced flavors.
Coffee Beer
Category: Specialty Beers
Food Pairings
- Pork Tenderloin
- Aged Semi-Hard Cheeses
- Vanilla Ice Cream
Commercial Examples
- Big Bad Baptist, Epic Brewing Co.
- Speedway Stout, AleSmith Brewing Co.
- Gusto Crema, Georgetown Brewing Co.
Appearance
Color
Pale to Black
Clarity
Brilliant to Opaque
Carbonation (Visual)
Varies
Flavor/Aroma
Alcohol
Varies
Hop
Hop flavor is reflective of aroma and can be low to high depending on the intent of the underlying style. Hop bitterness is very low to medium-high.
Malt
Medium-low to medium malt sweetness helps accent coffee flavors and aromas.
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
Other Styles you May Enjoy
