Buyer's Guide for Beer Lovers

2010 British and North American Ales

Cultural Exchange

Old Ale

Strong ales are sometimes referred to as old ales, stock ales or winter warmers. These beers are higher alcohol versions (typically between 5.5-7 percent ABV) of pale ales, though not as robust or alcoholic as barley wines. Usually a deep amber color, these brews generally have a sweet malty palate and a degree of fruitiness. If bottle conditioned, strong ales can improve for several years, in some cases eventually obtaining sherry-like notes.

Interpreting the 100-point Scale

Consumers can translate the point score to the following quality bands:

Point Range Quality Band
96-100 points Platinum
90-95 points Gold
85-90 points Silver
80-84 points Bronze
Less than 80 Not Recommended
Legend
  • = Brewpub
  • ABV = Alcohol by volume
  • Date denotes the date on which the beer was tasted

94 English Owd Ale, Moorhouse’s Brewery (England). 5.9% ABV (3/10)
Hazy copper orange color. Aromas of warm honey butter on toasted pumpernickel and chocolate-covered peach follow through on a round, supple entry to a dryish medium-to-full body with creamy citrus custard, savory roasted fennel and corn, molasses and dark roasted nut notes. Finishes with a long, dusty earth, cocoa, and nut fade. Very complex, contemplative and delicious. Try with roasted boar.

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