English Pale Ales are also known by the name of English Bitters. It was a term coined to distinguish these beers from the lesser hopped beers of the time. Despite of the name, English Pale Ales are not actually pale in colour and instead range from golden to copper. Usually brewed using English ingredients they are a showcase for traditional English hop varieties including Fuggles, Bramling Cross, First Gold and Goldings.
Expect to find a soft floral and fruity flavours, often with an earthy background note and subtle spicy finish. There's often more of a malt presence than in the American counterpart with a solid biscuity flavour coming through the beers.
Due to the range of flavours found in English Pale Ales they have a great food affinity. The clue is in the name and they pair well with traditional English dishes such as 'tofish' and chips, vegan sausages and mash or shepherdless pie. The floral and fruity characteristic of these beers, including notes of citrus, means they work well with more flavourful dishes too including tikka masala or Thai curry with jasmine rice. Pasta with a cream-based sauce is a good combination too.
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