What Is Pale Ale Anyway?

Pale ale is a type of beer that is brewed with mostly pale malts for a more equal malt-to-hop ratio. The greater amount of pale malts causes the beer to have a lighter color and flavor.

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The beer is made through a warm fermentation process, which keeps the product at temperatures usually between 59 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Pale ale originated in England but is now brewed and sold all over the world. The term dates back to 1703, when it referred to beers made with coke, a processed form of coal, which produced an amber- or copper-colored ale.

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Different countries make different styles of pale ale. The American pale ale we drink today was developed around 1980 and tends to be cleaner and hoppier, while British versions are more malty, buttery, aromatic, and balanced.

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Food pairings vary with the style of pale ale, but American versions typically pair best with simple dishes like grilled meat or fish.

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