Kentucky Common Ale is a unique beer style that originated in the state of Kentucky in the late 19th century. It is characterized by its use of specific ingredients and brewing techniques, resulting in a distinct flavor profile.
The base of Kentucky Common Ale is typically made with 6-row pale malt, a type of malt known for its high enzyme content. This helps to convert the starches in the grains into fermentable sugars during the brewing process. The use of pale malt gives the beer a light color and a clean, crisp taste.
To dilute the protein content and create a lighter body, a hefty amount of corn grits is added to the recipe. Corn is a common ingredient in American beer styles, and it contributes to the smoothness and drinkability of Kentucky Common Ale. The corn also adds a subtle sweetness to the beer, balancing out the bitterness from the hops.
In addition to the pale malt and corn grits, small amounts of caramel and black malt are used to add complexity to the flavor profile. Caramel malt provides a touch of sweetness and a hint of toffee, while black malt adds a subtle roasted flavor and a touch of color.
The overall result is a mostly malt-forward beer with a moderate level of bitterness. The clean fermentation character of Kentucky Common Ale allows the malt flavors to shine through, with a slight sweetness complemented by a balanced hop bitterness. The beer is typically medium-bodied and easy to drink, making it a popular choice among beer enthusiasts.
Personally, I have had the opportunity to try a few examples of Kentucky Common Ale, and I found them to be quite enjoyable. The combination of the pale malt, corn grits, and caramel malt created a smooth and slightly sweet base, while the black malt added a touch of roastiness. The balance between the malt and hop flavors was well-executed, resulting in a beer that was flavorful but not overwhelming.
Kentucky Common Ale is a unique beer style with its roots in Kentucky. It is characterized by its use of 6-row pale malt, corn grits, and small amounts of caramel and black malt. The result is a malt-forward beer with a moderate bitterness and a clean fermentation character. It is a style worth exploring for beer enthusiasts looking to try something distinct and historically significant.