Belgian-Style Pale Ale – Belgian Origin Ale Styles

Belgian-Style Pale Ale Style

  • Color: Gold to copper
  • Clarity: Chill haze is acceptable at low temperatures
  • Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Malt aroma should be low. Caramel or toasted malt flavor is acceptable.
  • Perceived Hop Aroma & Flavor: Low but noticeable. Noble-type hops are commonly used.
  • Perceived Bitterness: Low to medium
  • Fermentation Characteristics: Low to medium fruity esters are present. Yeast-derived phenolic spicy flavors and aromas should be present at low to medium-low levels. Diacetyl should not be present.
  • Body: Low to medium

Belgian-Style Pale Ale Vital Statistics

  • Original Gravity (°Plato) 1.044-1.054 (11-13.3 °Plato)
  • Apparent Extract/Final Gravity (°Plato) 1.008-1.014 (2.1-3.6 °Plato)
  • Alcohol by Weight (Volume) 3.2%-5.0% (4.1%-6.3%)
  • Bitterness (IBU) 20-30
  • Color SRM (EBC) 6-12(12-24 EBC)

2020 Brewers Association Beer Style Guidelines used with permission of Brewers Association.

Credit: 2020 Brewers Association Beer Style Guidelines – Ale Styles – Belgian Origin Ale Styles – Belgian-Style Pale Ale