Cherry beer is a sweet and fruity beverage that has been enjoyed by beer enthusiasts for centuries. A type of Lambic beer, cherry beer is produced by adding dried red cherries to barrels before fermentation. In Belgium, this unique brew is referred to as “Kriek”, or “The Scream”.
Given its distinct flavor and aroma, cherry beer has become increasingly popular in recent years. Craft brewers have taken advantage of the fruit's natural sweetness to create a variety of unique beers that range from light and dry to thick and creamy. It can also be blended with other styles of beer, such as wheat or pale ales, to create an even more complex flavor profile.
The history of Kriek dates back to at least the early 18th century when it was first brewed in Kent. Since then, it has spread across the world with different brewers putting their own spin on the classic recipe. The original version was made with Old Ale and cherries; however, modern versions often include additional ingredients such as spices or other fruits to give it a unique taste.
A quality cherry beer should have a light golden hue with a slightly hazy appearance due to the addition of cherries during fermentation. The aroma should be sweet and fruity with notes of tart cherries along with hints of malt and spices if used. On the palate, you should experience a smooth body that leads into a refreshing finish with just enough tartness from the cherries to balance out any sweetness on the tongue.
When selecting a cherry beer for purchase or brewing your own at home, it's important to consider what types of fruit are used in its creation as well as how long it has been aged for optimal taste and texture. Quality beers will usually contain whole cherries rathr than just syrup or concentrate; look for beers that have been aged in wooden barrels for at least four months before being bottled or canned for sale.
Whether you're looking for something light and refreshing on a hot summer day or something more robust and complex ideal for sipping on cooler evenings, there's sure to be plenty of options when it comes to cherry beer! From traditional Kriek recipes found in Belgium all the way to modern takes produced by craft breweries around the world – no matter what your preference may be – there's certain to be one that fits your tastes perfectly!
Making Cherry Beer
Cherry beer is made using a Lambic brewing process, which begins with malted barley and wheat grains that are boiled in a large copper vat for several hours. After the boiling process is complete, the wort is then cooled and transferred to wooden barrels for several months of fermentation. During this time, the wort will naturally sour due to the presence of native yeast and bacteria in the air. Once this process has been completed, the brewers add dried red cherries to the barrels and allow them to ferment once again. This secod fermentation can take up three months or more before it is ready to be bottled or kegged. The longer fermentation results in a sweeter, more complex flavor profile than other beers made with fruit. The finished product is a tart, slightly sweet beer that has notes of cherry, wood and funkiness from the wild yeasts used during fermentation.
Is Cherry Ale Considered a Beer?
Yes, cherry ale is a beer! It is a type of malt beverage that is made by combining ripe red and black cherry nectar with a carefully crafted malt beverage recipe. This creates a unique beer that has a sweet, tart and fruity flavor profile that sets it apart from other types of beer. The result is a beer with a light to medium body, moderate carbonation and a deep red color. Cherry ale can be enjoyed as an interesting accompaniment to food or as an after-dinner drink for those who enjoy the taste of cherries.
What is Cherry Ale?
Cherry Ale is a type of old ale flavoured with cherries, and is a traditional British style of beer. It has been popular in Kent since the early 18th century, although it can be found in other parts of the UK too. This beer is made by fermenting pale or amber malt with a top-fermenting yeast, before adding cherries during the fermentation process. The resulting beer has a sweet and tart cherry flavour, which balances out the maltiness of the ale. Cherry Ale can range from light to dark in colour, and typically contains between 4-6% alcohol by volume. It is oftn served as a session beer – meaning that it's not too strong – and it can be enjoyed on its own or paired with food.
Alcohol Content of Cherries
Cherry wine typically has an alcohol content of 11.5%. This level of alcohol is considered moderate compared to other wines, and provides a light buzz without an overly strong effect. It is lower in alcohol than fortified wines such as port or sherry, which can contain up to 20% ABV. Cherry wine also contains fewer calories than other wines due to its lower alcohol content, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a lighter alternative.
Difference Between Beer and Ale
Ales and beers are both types of brewed alcoholic beverages, but they differ in their fermentation processes. Ales are fermented with top-fermenting yeast, whih ferments at warmer temperatures and rises to the surface of the beer. This results in a fuller body and more complex flavors. Beers, on the other hand, use bottom-fermenting yeast that ferments at cooler temperatures and sinks to the bottom of the beer. This results in a lighter body and less complex flavors. Ales tend to be more aromatic and flavorful than beers, making them ideal for those looking for a beer with depth of flavor.
Is Ale Sweeter Than Beer?
Yes, ale is generally sweeter than beer. This is due to its higher sugar content, which comes from the malt used in the brewing process. Ales tend to be fuller-bodied with a slightly fruity flavor profile and a cloudier appearance. They are also higher in alcohol content, have more bitterness and stronger hop flavor than beers. The sweetness of an ale can vary depending on the type of malt and hops that are used, but overall ales tend to be sweeter than beers,
Conclusion
As can be seen, cherry beer has a long and varied history that stretches back centuries. This unique beverage is a form of Lambic Belgian beer, which involves the addition of dried red cherries to barrels prior to fermentation. This process creates a unique flavor profile that includes both ripe red and black cherries. The result is an incredibly refreshing drink that offers an unparalleled cherry flavor. Whether you're looking for a light and fruity summer treat or an old ale with a hint of cherries, cherry beer is sure to please all palates.
