American-Style Barley Wine Ale Style
- Color: Amber to deep red/copper-garnet
- Clarity: Chill haze is acceptable at low temperatures
- Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Caramel and/or toffee malt aromas are often present. High residual malty sweetness, often with caramel and/or toffee flavors, should be present.
- Perceived Hop Aroma & Flavor: Medium to very high. American hop varieties are often used, but are not required for this style.
- Perceived Bitterness: High
- Fermentation Characteristics: Complex alcohols are evident. Fruity esters are often high. Diacetyl is usually absent in these beers but may be present at very low levels.
- Body: Full
- Additional notes: Vinous, sherry-like or port-like attributes arising from oxidation may be considered positive when in harmony with overall flavor profile.
American-Style Barley Wine Ale Vital Statistics
- Original Gravity (°Plato) 1.090-1.120 (21.6-28 °Plato)
- Apparent Extract/Final Gravity (°Plato) 1.024-1.028 (6.1-7.1 °Plato)
- Alcohol by Weight (Volume) 6.7%-9.6% (8.5%-12.2%)
- Bitterness (IBU) 60-100
- Color SRM (EBC) 11-18(22-36 EBC)
2020 Brewers Association Beer Style Guidelines used with permission of Brewers Association.