Can you get cask ale in the USA? While it may not be as widespread as other styles of beer, there are indeed breweries in the United States that specialize in cask ale, also known as real ale or cask-conditioned ale. One such brewery is Seneca Lake Brewing, located in New York.
Cask ale is a traditional style of beer that is commonly found in British pubs. It is unique because it is naturally carbonated and served from a cask without any additional carbon dioxide or nitrogen pressure. This gives the beer a softer, smoother mouthfeel and allows for more subtle flavors to come through.
I had the pleasure of visiting Seneca Lake Brewing and experiencing their cask ale firsthand. The brewery itself is nestled in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of New York, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. The taproom has a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with wooden beams and a warm fireplace.
The cask ale at Seneca Lake Brewing is truly something special. They take great care in the brewing process, using traditional methods and ingredients to create their unique beers. The beers are fermented in casks, allowing for natural carbonation to occur. This results in a beer that is alive and constantly evolving, with flavors that develop over time.
One of my favorite cask ales that I tried at Seneca Lake Brewing was their ESB (Extra Special Bitter). It had a deep amber color and a rich, malty flavor with hints of caramel and toffee. The mouthfeel was velvety smooth, and the carbonation was gentle and effervescent. It was a truly delicious and satisfying pint.
While Seneca Lake Brewing is one of the few breweries in the United States that exclusively makes cask ale, there are other breweries across the country that also offer this style of beer. It may require a bit of searching and exploring, but the reward is well worth it for any beer enthusiast.
Cask ale is indeed available in the USA, albeit in limited quantities. Breweries like Seneca Lake Brewing are dedicated to preserving and showcasing the tradition of cask ale. So, if you're a fan of this unique and flavorful style of beer, I encourage you to seek out these establishments and experience the joy of cask ale for yourself.