American-Style Barley Wine Ale – North American Origin Ale Styles

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.

Credit: 2020 Brewers Association Beer Style Guidelines – Ale Styles – North American Origin Ale Styles – American-Style Barley Wine Ale