Extra Special / Strong Bitter (ESB)
Extra Special/Strong Bitter (ESB) is a classic British ale that represents the strongest version of English Pale Ales, featuring a pronounced malt character balanced by assertive English hop varieties. With its rich copper to amber color, ESB offers a harmonious blend of biscuit and caramel malt flavors with earthy, floral, and sometimes fruity hop notes, moderate to medium-high bitterness, and a dry to medium-sweet finish. First popularized by Fuller's Brewery in London with their iconic Fuller's ESB, the style epitomizes the tradition of balanced British ales, typically featuring English pale ale malt, crystal malts, and classic English hop varieties like Fuggles and East Kent Goldings.
Nothing matches that combination.
Try loosening a filter, or call (563) 239-9080 — we may have just the thing behind the counter.
Didn't find what you're looking for?
Tell us what's for dinner and we'll walk you through a few pairings — or give us a ring and we'll pull something off the shelf.
Not sure where to start with Extra Special / Strong Bitter (ESB)?
Call us or come by — we'll walk you through the shelf.