As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can definitely confirm that pale ale does indeed have malt. Malt is a key ingredient in the brewing process and plays a significant role in the flavor profile of pale ales.
Malt is derived from barley and is responsible for providing the beer with its sweetness, body, and color. It is essentially the backbone of any beer, including pale ales. The malt undergoes a process called mashing, where it is soaked in hot water to extract its sugars. These sugars are then converted into alcohol during fermentation.
In the case of pale ales, the malt flavors are often emphasized more than the hops. This means that the beer will have a noticeable malt sweetness and character. The malt used in pale ales is typically pale malt, which is lightly kilned and has a milder flavor compared to darker malts used in stouts or porters.
The malt flavors in pale ales can vary depending on the specific recipe and brewing techniques used. Some pale ales may have a more biscuity or toasty malt flavor, while others may showcase a caramel or honey-like sweetness. The malt also contributes to the beer's body, giving it a medium-bodied mouthfeel.
Personally, I have brewed and tasted various pale ales throughout my career, and the malt flavors have always been present. I recall one particular pale ale that I brewed using a combination of pale malt and a touch of caramel malt. This resulted in a beautiful balance between the hop bitterness and the sweet maltiness, creating a truly enjoyable drinking experience.
Pale ales definitely have malt. It is an essential component of the beer and contributes to its flavor, sweetness, and body. The malt flavors in pale ales can vary, but they are often emphasized more than the hop flavors. So, if you are a fan of malt-forward beers with a moderate level of bitterness, English pale ales might just be your perfect choice.