American Pale Ale

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, first brewed in 1980 around Cascade hops, became the template for this style and, with it, much of American craft brewing's identity. It is an average-strength, hop-forward pale ale with enough supporting malt to stay balanced and drinkable, and a clean fermentation profile. Strength runs 4.5 to 6.2 percent alcohol with 30 to 50 IBU and a pale gold 5 to 10 SRM colour. Developed in the late 1970s and 1980s, it took the English pale ale and rebuilt it on American hops. Deschutes Mirror Pond, Three Floyds Alpha King, and Firestone Walker Pale 31 are notable examples. BJCP records it as 18B.

An average-strength, hop-forward, pale American craft beer with sufficient supporting malt to make the beer balanced and drinkable. Clean fermentation profile.

Moderate American hop aroma with citrus, floral, or tropical notes. Low to medium bready or grainy malt aroma. Clean fermentation with minimal esters. Hop character is prominent but not overwhelming.

Pale gold to amber, 5-10 SRM. Clear to slightly hazy. White to off-white head with good retention.

Moderate American hop flavor with citrus or floral notes. Low to moderate caramel or bready malt. Moderate bitterness with a clean, dry finish. Balanced but hop-accented.

Medium-light to medium body with moderate to high carbonation. Smooth and clean. No astringency.

Developed in the American craft beer movement of the late 1970s-80s, inspired by English pale ale but using American hops. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale (1980), inspired by English ales, became the defining template, showcasing Cascade hops. The style helped define American craft brewing identity.

What is American Pale Ale beer?

American Pale Ale (BJCP 18B) — a hop-forward, balanced American craft beer. Style guide, specs, and examples.

What is the ABV of American Pale Ale?

American Pale Ale has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.5-6.2%.

How bitter is American Pale Ale beer?

American Pale Ale measures 30-50 IBU (International Bitterness Units).

What are some examples of American Pale Ale beers?

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, Deschutes Mirror Pond, Three Floyds Alpha King, Firestone Walker Pale 31