J&B BrewBasement

American Red / Amber Ale is primarily a catch all for any beer less than a Dark Ale in color, ranging from amber to deep red hues. This style of beer tends to focus on the malts, but hop character can range from low to high. Expect a balanced beer, with toasted malt characters and a light fruitiness in most examples. Low to medium fruity esters make way for a smooth or crisp mouth-feel.

 

The range can run from a basic ale, to American brewers who brew faux-Oktoberfest style beers that are actually ales instead of lagers.Initially gaining popularity in the Pacific Northwest and Northern California, it was known more as “red ale”—often used in the beer’s name by brewers in this region.

 

As the style’s popularity spread across the country, more breweries began brewing their own interpretations, with some calling it an “amber,” and this name caught on.