American Wild Ale

A sour, funky, and complex beer inspired by Belgian wild ales but with American creativity. Fermented with Brettanomyces and/or bacteria.

Variable wild character including Brettanomyces funk, barnyard, leather, fruity esters, and lactic sourness. Hop aroma may be present. Complexity varies widely by producer. Intriguing and craft-driven.

Varies widely by base style and microbes: pale gold to dark brown, often hazy or turbid. Head varies. Color depends on base beer and added ingredients.

Funky, earthy Brettanomyces character with fruity esters and lactic sourness. Hop bitterness may be present. Complexity varies widely. Dry to semi-dry finish. Uniquely American in interpretation.

Varies widely. Generally light to medium body with moderate to high carbonation. Tartness or funkiness contributes to the perception. Variable by producer.

An American innovation of the 1990s-2000s, inspired by Belgian wild ales but with distinctly American creativity. Russian River's Temptation and Consecration, and Jolly Pumpkin's barrel-aged sours were early examples. American craft brewers applied mixed fermentation techniques with freedom from geographic and tradition constraints.

What is American Wild Ale beer?

American Wild Ale (BJCP 28A) — a complex, funky sour beer with American creativity. Style guide.

What is the ABV of American Wild Ale?

American Wild Ale has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 4.5-8.5%.

How bitter is American Wild Ale beer?

American Wild Ale measures 0-25 IBU (International Bitterness Units).

What are some examples of American Wild Ale beers?

Russian River Sanctification, Jolly Pumpkin Bam Bière, Boulevard Love Child, Crooked Stave Wild Wild Brett