Imperial Red Ale – North American Origin Ale Styles

Imperial Red Ale Style

  • Color: Deep amber to dark copper/reddish-brown
  • Clarity: Chill haze is acceptable at low temperatures
  • Perceived Malt Aroma & Flavor: Medium to high caramel malt character is present in aroma and flavor
  • Perceived Hop Aroma & Flavor: High, derived from any variety of hops. Hop flavor is prominent and balanced with other beer attributes.
  • Perceived Bitterness: Very high
  • Fermentation Characteristics: Very high alcohol is a hallmark of this style. Complex alcohol flavors may be present. Fruity esters are medium. Diacetyl should not be present.
  • Body: Full

Imperial Red Ale Vital Statistics

  • Original Gravity (°Plato) 1.080-1.100 (19.3-23.7 °Plato)
  • Apparent Extract/Final Gravity (°Plato) 1.020-1.028 (5.1-7.1 °Plato)
  • Alcohol by Weight (Volume) 6.3%-8.4% (8.0%-10.6%)
  • Bitterness (IBU) 55-85
  • Color SRM (EBC) 10-17(20-34 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 – Imperial Red Ale