All Beer Styles

British Strong Ale

Strong British AleBJCP 17A

Difficulty: Easy

Malty, rounded, strong British ale with complex fruit and toffee notes

An ale of respectable alcoholic strength, traditionally bottled-conditioned and target for aging. Complex, sometimes malty, sometimes hoppy, always well-attenuated.

5.5-8%
ABV
30-60
IBU
16-44
EBC
1.8-2.3
CO₂ vol
1.055-1.08
Original Gravity (OG)
1.015-1.022
Final Gravity (FG)

How to Brew a British Strong Ale

Typical Malts

  • Pale Ale or Pilsner malt

Typical Hops

  • Style-appropriate hops

Yeast

Ale yeast (e.g. US-05, S-04)

Style Requirements

Typical Flavors

malty
fruity
toffee
caramel
complex
warming

FAQ about British Strong Ale

What is a British Strong Ale?

An ale of respectable alcoholic strength, traditionally bottled-conditioned and target for aging. Complex, sometimes malty, sometimes hoppy, always well-attenuated.

How much alcohol does a British Strong Ale have?

A British Strong Ale typically has 5.5–8% ABV. Original gravity ranges from 1.055–1.08, final gravity from 1.015–1.022.

How bitter is a British Strong Ale?

A British Strong Ale has 30–60 IBU (International Bitterness Units). This is a fairly bitter style.

What ingredients do you need for a British Strong Ale?

Typical malts: Pale Ale or Pilsner malt. Typical hops: Style-appropriate hops. Yeast: Ale yeast (e.g. US-05, S-04).

Do you need special equipment for a British Strong Ale?

A British Strong Ale can be brewed with standard equipment (pot or all-in-one system). Fermentation temperature: 18–24°C (64–75°F).

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