12 British Beer Styles To Explore

The world of British beer is rich and diverse, offering a wide range of styles that cater to various tastes and preferences. From the crisp, refreshing lagers to the robust, full-bodied ales, British beer has something to offer every beer enthusiast. In this article, we will delve into 12 British beer styles that are worth exploring, each with its unique characteristics, brewing techniques, and historical backgrounds.

Introduction to British Beer Styles

British beer styles have evolved over centuries, shaped by the country’s brewing traditions, geographical factors, and cultural influences. The UK is home to a plethora of beer styles, each with its distinct flavor profile, aroma, and texture. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of British beer, understanding the different styles will enhance your appreciation and enjoyment of these magnificent brews.

1. Bitter

Bitter is a classic British beer style that originated in the 19th century. It is characterized by its balanced blend of malt and hops, with a subtle bitterness and a crisp, dry finish. Bitters are typically golden to copper in color, with an ABV ranging from 3.5% to 4.5%. Fuller’s London Pride and Adnams Southwold Bitter are two notable examples of this style.

2. Pale Ale

Pale ale is a popular British beer style that has gained worldwide recognition. It is brewed with a combination of pale malts and hops, resulting in a beer that is both refreshing and full of flavor. British pale ales are often described as hoppy and crisp, with a hint of fruitiness and a dry finish. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and Meantime London Pale Ale are two excellent representations of this style.

3. India Pale Ale (IPA)

India Pale Ale is a style of beer that was originally brewed in the UK for export to India during the British colonial era. IPAs are characterized by their hoppy flavor and aroma, with a bitter finish and a full-bodied texture. British IPAs are often brewed with a combination of malt and hops, resulting in a beer that is both complex and refreshing. Beavertown Gamma Ray and Cloudwater IPA are two notable examples of this style.

4. Porter

Porter is a dark, malty beer style that originated in London in the 18th century. It is characterized by its rich, smooth flavor and aroma, with notes of chocolate, coffee, and caramel. British porters are often brewed with a combination of malt and hops, resulting in a beer that is both full-bodied and refreshing. Fuller’s London Porter and Meantime London Porter are two excellent representations of this style.

5. Stout

Stout is a dark, roasted beer style that is similar to porter but with a drier, more bitter finish. British stouts are often brewed with a combination of malt and hops, resulting in a beer that is both full-bodied and complex. Guinness and Shepherd Neame Double Stout are two notable examples of this style.

6. Mild Ale

Mild ale is a traditional British beer style that is characterized by its malty flavor and aroma, with a sweet finish and a low ABV. Mild ales are often brewed with a combination of malt and hops, resulting in a beer that is both refreshing and full of flavor. Banks’s Mild and Hydes Mild are two excellent representations of this style.

7. Brown Ale

Brown ale is a malty, full-bodied beer style that is characterized by its rich, smooth flavor and aroma, with notes of caramel, chocolate, and nuts. British brown ales are often brewed with a combination of malt and hops, resulting in a beer that is both complex and refreshing. Newcastle Brown Ale and Adnams Brown Ale are two notable examples of this style.

8. Golden Ale

Golden ale is a light, refreshing beer style that is characterized by its crisp flavor and aroma, with a hint of fruitiness and a dry finish. British golden ales are often brewed with a combination of malt and hops, resulting in a beer that is both full of flavor and easy to drink. Cooper’s Golden Ale and St Austell Tribute are two excellent representations of this style.

9. Barley Wine

Barley wine is a strong, complex beer style that is characterized by its rich, malty flavor and aroma, with notes of fruit, spice, and nuts. British barley wines are often brewed with a combination of malt and hops, resulting in a beer that is both full-bodied and refreshing. Thomas Hardy’s Ale and Harvey’s Elizabethan Ale are two notable examples of this style.

10. Old Ale

Old ale is a traditional British beer style that is characterized by its rich, complex flavor and aroma, with notes of caramel, chocolate, and fruit. British old ales are often brewed with a combination of malt and hops, resulting in a beer that is both full-bodied and refreshing. Theakston’s Old Peculier and Adnams Old Ale are two excellent representations of this style.

11. Imperial Stout

Imperial stout is a strong, full-bodied beer style that is characterized by its rich, complex flavor and aroma, with notes of chocolate, coffee, and spice. British imperial stouts are often brewed with a combination of malt and hops, resulting in a beer that is both full-bodied and refreshing. Samuel Smith’s Imperial Stout and Harvey’s Imperial Extra Double Stout are two notable examples of this style.

12. Sour Beer

Sour beer is a unique and refreshing beer style that is characterized by its tart flavor and aroma, with notes of fruit and acidity. British sour beers are often brewed with a combination of malt, hops, and wild yeast, resulting in a beer that is both complex and refreshing. Beavertown Sour and Cloudwater Sour are two excellent representations of this style.