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Cream Ales (no there is no cream in it)

Ever wondered what a Cream Ale is? Then read on ...

A Cream Ale is a style of beer originating from the United States, known for its smooth, mild flavour and crisp finish. It's a hybrid style that combines attributes of both ales and lagers.  It is a very misunderstood beer, as many believe that it might (or even should) taste creamy (because of the name), where infact, the ingredients and soft carbonation gives it a creamy mouthfeel, and thats where the name comes from.

Key characteristics of a Cream Ale include:

Smooth Texture:
As already mentioned, true to its name, Cream Ales have a smooth and creamy mouthfeel, which mainly comes from the use of adjuncts such as corn or rice in the grain bill. This addition contributes to the beer's lightness and drinkability.

Lightness:
Cream Ales typically have a light body and colour, ranging from pale straw to golden. They are easy-drinking and refreshing, making them a popular choice for warm weather or session drinking.

Maltiness:
While Cream Ales are light-bodied, they often exhibit a subtle malt sweetness. This sweetness is usually balanced with a moderate level of hop bitterness, providing a gentle contrast to the malt character.

Clean Fermentation:
Cream Ales are typically fermented with ale yeast strains at cooler temperatures, similar to lager fermentation. This results in a clean and crisp profile, with fewer esters and fruity notes compared to many other ale styles.

Balanced Flavour:
Again, Cream Ales are known for their balance between malt sweetness and hop bitterness. They are not overly assertive in either aspect, making them approachable for a wide range of beer drinkers.

Overall, Cream Ales are a versatile and enjoyable style that bridges the gap between ale and lager characteristics. They offer a smooth and refreshing drinking experience with enough flavour complexity to keep things interesting without being overpowering.

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