Old Ale
Old Ale is a traditional British beer style known for its rich malty character, fruity esters, and complex oxidative notes that develop with age. Historically brewed to be cellared and consumed after extended aging, these beers typically feature caramel, toffee, and dark fruit flavors with subtle notes of leather, tobacco, or port-like oxidation. Traditional examples often used extended boiling times, partial mash techniques, and in some cases Brettanomyces for fermentation character.
Perfect Pairings for Old Ale
Discover dishes that pair perfectly with Old Ale beers
Pecan pie
Pecan pie's rich sweetness with caramelized notes and nutty character pairs beautifully with dessert wines that offer complementary caramel, dried fruit, and honey flavors. The malty sweetness and roasted notes in the recommended beer styles echo the pie's nutty characteristics while providing enough body to stand up to its richness.
Slow-cooked lamb
Slow-cooked lamb develops deep, rich flavors with tender texture and savory umami notes. The concentrated gaminess and fat content of lamb calls for beverages with substantial structure, moderate tannins, and complementary dark fruit or malt-forward characteristics that can stand up to the meat while enhancing its complexity.