Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale
Historical BeerBJCP 27A1
Ale brewed with herbs instead of hops
A somewhat sweet, moderate-strength ale flavored with a variety of herbs and spices, but without hops.
How to Brew a Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale
Typical Malts
- ● Pale Ale or Pilsner malt
Typical Hops
- ● Hallertau Mittelfrüh
- ● Tettnanger
- ● Saaz
Yeast
● Ale yeast (e.g. US-05, S-04)
Special Ingredients
- ● Spices
Style Requirements
Typical Flavors
FAQ about Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale
What is a Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale?
A somewhat sweet, moderate-strength ale flavored with a variety of herbs and spices, but without hops.
How much alcohol does a Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale have?
A Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale typically has 4–8% ABV. Original gravity ranges from 1.04–1.08, final gravity from 1.01–1.02.
How bitter is a Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale?
A Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale has 0–5 IBU (International Bitterness Units). This is a very mild, low-bitterness style.
What ingredients do you need for a Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale?
Typical malts: Pale Ale or Pilsner malt. Typical hops: Hallertau Mittelfrüh, Tettnanger, Saaz. Yeast: Ale yeast (e.g. US-05, S-04).
Do you need special equipment for a Gruit / Ancient Herbed Ale?
A Gruit / Ancient Herbed 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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