I'm particularly excited that we've currently got three amazing ale styles in our range. But why is an ale different from a lager, and what the heck does IPA stand for? So please indulge me this month, as I veer a little into beer nerd territory, and tell you a bit more about the awesome world of ales...
First up. ale v. lager
According to Pete, the difference is simple. "Lager and ales are fermented using different yeasts. Lager yeasts ferment more slowly at lower temperatures. They release fewer fruity flavours (esters) resulting in a crisper beer. Ale yeasts like it warmer, are quicker to ferment and produce lots more esters for a deeper flavour."
So what's a pale ale?
Pale ale describes the colour of the beer, anything from light straw through to deep golden. Pale malt is the base malt for most pale ales.
And amber ales?
Amber ales are darker than pales, pouring a rich red amber hue. The colour comes from crystal malts, which add a bit more sweetness too.
So where does IPA fit in?
IPA stands for India Pale Ale. The history of the beer dates back to British rule in India. Traditional English pale ales didn't last long in the heat, so brewers added more hops and alcohol as a preservative. Soldiers grew to love the stronger more flavoursome brews, asking for more of the same when they return back home.
We clearly don't brew our Jump Ship IPAs to be more alcoholic, but we do add more hops throughout the brew to release more flavour and aroma.
Feeling thirsty for more?
We've packed up all three of our ales into a new Mixed Ale pack. Grab yourself a pack and experience for yourself the depth and range of flavours in this beer style.