Topic: Beer Styles
Mild Ale
Five hundred years ago, almost all British beers existed as both stale and mild ales. From its earliest use through the 18th Century, the term “mild” referred to an entire class of ales. These beers were much bigger than today’s mild (perhaps 20 °P or more) and they were served young and sweet with residual malt sugars. Any beer could be called mild as long as it lacked the sourness of aged beers, such as stale or stock ale.
Kölsch
Commercial Kölsch is really only Kölsch if it’s brewed in the German city of Cologne. Kölsch brewed at home, however, can be refreshing and crisp on a spring or summer day.
Vienna Lager: Tips from the Pros
Three US brewers discuss how they brew Vienna lager and share some advice for small batches.
Hybrid Beer Styles
Do you like brown ales? How about India pale ales (IPAs)? Then why not a brown IPA? Learn how to envision, formulate and brew a “fusion beer” — a beer that is made by combining the elements of two or more existing beer styles. Plus: two example recipes.
Irish Red Ale
One of the first things you learn about most styles is whether it’s an ale or a lager. This month’s featured style — Irish red ale — can be either.
Aussie-style Dark Ale: Tips from the Pros
Australian Pale Ale
This article takes a look at Australian pale ale, as typified by Coopers Sparkling Ale — a beer with an unlikely name and an even more unlikely yeast sediment. Michael Jackson once described this beer as an Australian classic.
Brewing American Pale Ale
What does it take to turn an average American pale ale into an awesome one? Guest columnist Gordon Strong explains the style.
Fermenting Big Belgian-style Beers: Tips from the Pros
What’s the difference between fermenting everyday beers and fermenting the big, strong Belgians? The yeast of course. These three professional Belgian-style brewers talk about what it takes to keep your yeast happy, healthy and productive, even in the most extreme conditions.
Brewing Big Barleywines
Barleywine is beer, not wine. Beyond that, the definition can get a bit fuzzy. One thing’s for sure, however, and that’s that it takes some skill to brew a good one. Learn how to handle all that malt and get the proper amount of attenuation in your own barleywine. Plus: three big recipes.
Fruit Beers
Some folks think fruit beer is for beginners, but that’s not the case. Just like getting a tan on vacation — you need to start with a good base.
Brewing Smoked Beers: Tips from the Pros
Brian O’Reilly (Sly Fox), Andrew Brown (Wynkoop) and Curtis Holmes (Alaskan) discuss the specifics of brewing smoked beers.
