Bitter Beer Style

Bitter Beer Style: The Brew for Those Who Like to Pucker Up

Reading Time: around 21 min

Are you tired of the same old beer styles? Do you crave something with a bit more complexity and depth? Look no further than Bitter beer. While the name may suggest an overpowering bitterness, Bitter beer is actually a well-balanced and nuanced style.

A style that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Bitter beer originated in England in the 19th century and quickly became a staple in pubs throughout the country. The style is characterized by its moderate to high hop bitterness, balanced by a malty sweetness. 

Bitter beer is typically brewed with English hops and yeast…

…giving it a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other beer styles.

Key Takeaways

  • Bitter beer is a well-balanced and nuanced beer style with a moderate to high hop bitterness and malty sweetness.
  • The style originated in England in the 19th century and has been a staple in pubs throughout the country ever since.
  • Bitter beer is typically brewed with English hops and yeast, giving it a distinct flavor profile.

 

Bitter’s History and Origins

If you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ve probably heard of the Bitter beer style. 

But do you know its history and origins? Let’s dive into it!

19th Century Beginnings

Bitter beer style originated in the 19th century in Britain. At that time, the beer market was dominated by ales, which were sweet and had a lower alcohol content. Brewers wanted to create a beer that was more refreshing and had a higher alcohol content. 

Thus, Bitter was born.

Bitter beer style is characterized by its high hop content, which gives it a distinct bitterness. The bitterness is balanced by a malty sweetness, which makes it a well-rounded beer. Bitter is also known for its golden color and medium body.

British Roots

Bitter beer style is deeply rooted in British culture. It’s a beer that’s enjoyed in pubs across the country and is a flagship of British drinking culture. Bitter is often served at room temperature, which allows its complex flavors to shine through.

In the early days, Bitter was brewed using only British hops and malts. 

However, as the beer gained popularity, brewers started experimenting with different ingredients. Today, Bitter is brewed using a variety of hops and malts from around the world, giving it a unique flavor profile.

Bitter beer style has a rich history and is deeply connected to British culture. Its distinct bitterness and well-rounded flavor make it a favorite among beer enthusiasts. So, next time you’re at a pub, why not try a Bitter? 

You might just fall in love with this classic beer style.

Bitter Beer Style Need-to-know

Especially, if you’re looking for a beer with a distinct flavor, Bitter Beer might be the perfect choice for you. This beer style is known for its hoppy bitterness and is a popular choice among beer enthusiasts. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Bitter Beer.

Understanding Bitter Beer Style

Bitter Beer is a beer style that originated in England and is known for its hoppy bitterness. This beer is made with a high hop content, which gives it a distinct flavor that is both bitter and refreshing. 

The bitterness in Bitter Beer comes from the hops used during the brewing process.

Which are added at various stages to create a complex flavor profile.

Main Characteristics of Bitter

Bitter Beer is a type of ale that is characterized by its hoppy bitterness. 

Here are some of the main characteristics of Bitter Beer:

  • Alcohol level: Typically ranges from 3% to 6.2%
  • IBU bitterness: Usually between 20 and 50
  • SRM color range: Ranges from 5 to 18
  • Flavor: Hoppy bitterness with a slightly sweet finish
  • Malty aromas: can include notes of caramel, toffee, toasted bread, and biscuit
  • Hoppy aromas: can include floral, earthy, and herbal notes, also a touch of citrus or pine
Bitter Beer - graphic summary

Bitter Beer vs. Pale Ale

You may have heard the terms “Pale Ale” and “Bitter Beer” used interchangeably, but they are actually quite different. While both are ales, Pale Ale tends to have a more balanced flavor profile with a focus on the malt sweetness.

While Bitter Beer lives up to its name with a strong, bitter taste that comes from the hops.

Subcategories of Bitter Beer

Bitter Beer is a broad category that includes several subcategories, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are some of the most popular subcategories of Bitter Beer:

  • Ordinary Bitter: A low-alcohol beer with a mild hop flavor
  • Special Bitter: A slightly stronger beer with a more pronounced hop flavor
  • Best Bitter: A medium-strength beer with a balanced hop and malt flavor
  • Extra Special Bitter: A strong beer with a complex flavor profile and a high hop content

 

Bitter Beer is a unique and flavorful beer style that is sure to please anyone who enjoys a hoppy brew. With its distinct flavor profile and range of subcategories, there’s a Bitter Beer out there for everyone. 

So go ahead, grab a pint, and enjoy the bitterness!

Physical Characteristics

There are a few physical characteristics that set the Bitter beer style apart from other beer styles. Let’s take a closer look at two of the most important ones. Color and head retention and / or clarity.

Color Me Bitter

Bitter beers typically have a range of colors, from light gold to amber and copper. 

The color of a Bitter beer can depend on the type of malt used during brewing, as well as the amount of hops added to the mix. Some Bitter beers may have a slightly cloudy appearance, while others are crystal clear.

Head Retention and Clarity

The head of a Bitter beer is typically white or off-white, and it can vary in size and retention. Some Bitter beers have a thick, frothy head that lasts for several minutes. While others have a thinner head that dissipates quickly. 

The clarity of a Bitter beer can also vary, with some beers having a slightly hazy appearance.

Due to the use of unfiltered ingredients.

Overall, the physical characteristics of a Bitter beer can vary depending on the specific recipe used by the brewer. However, one thing is for sure: Bitter beers are always packed with flavor and character. 

Making them a favorite among beer enthusiasts everywhere.

Flavor Profile

When it comes to Bitter beer, the flavor profile is a symphony of bitter, malty, and hoppy notes. They all come together to create a truly unique taste experience. Let’s break down the different components that make up this delicious style.

The Bitter Symphony

As the name suggests, bitterness is a key component of Bitter beer. However, it’s not just any bitterness. Bitter beer is characterized by a smooth, balanced bitterness that is not overpowering

This bitterness comes from the hops used in the brewing process.

And they also give the beer its earthy, herbal, and floral aromas.

Malt Character Matters

While hops are important, the malt character of Bitter beer is rather crucial. The maltiness provides a sweet, caramel-like flavor that balances out the bitterness of the hops. This sweetness is also what makes Bitter beer a great pairing for hearty, savory dishes.

Hop Aromatics and Flavors

In addition to bitterness, the hops used in Bitter beer also provide a range of aromatics and flavors. Depending on the specific hops used, Bitter beer can have notes of grapefruit, pine, or even tropical fruit. In more contemporary interpretations.

In more traditional ones you want to aim for floral, earthy, and rather green aromas.

These flavors and aromas are what make Bitter beer such a complex and interesting style.

Overall, Bitter beer is a unique and delicious style that balances bitterness, sweetness, and fruity flavors. If you’re a fan of complex, flavorful beers, Bitter beer is definitely worth trying. 

Cheers to a symphony of flavors in every sip!

Recommended Ingredients for Bitter

If you’re looking for a beer that’s bold and flavorful, you can’t go wrong with Bitter beer. This style is known for its strong hop character, which gives it a distinctive bitterness that’s balanced by a rich malt flavor. 

But how do you make a great Bitter beer?

The first step in brewing a great Bitter beer is selecting the right ingredients. 

Recommended Malts for Bitter

For the malt bill, you’ll want to use a combination of pale malt and specialty malts like crystal or biscuit. These malts will give your beer a rich, complex flavor that complements the hop character.

Just as an example. A typical malt bill for a Bitter beer might include around 85% pale malt, 10% crystal malt, and 5% chocolate malt. This combination helps to achieve the desired malty sweetness and depth of flavor for the style.

Malt Name

Min of Lb per gallon

Max of Lb per gallon

Min of Lb per batch [5gal]

Max of Lb per batch [5gal]

Average of Lb per gallon

Maris Otter

6

0.02

30

1.46

Crystal Malt

2.09

10.43

0.12

Caramel / Crystal Malt

1.27

0.02

6.36

0.13

2-Row Pale Malt

0.02

4

0.11

20

1.35

Pale Ale Malt

0.01

5.67

0.06

28.37

1.37

Cara Malt

1.64

0.01

8.18

0.11

Wheat Malt

2

0.02

10

0.15

Malt Extract

0.01

2.09

0.06

10.43

0.72

Munich Malt

0.01

2.5

0.07

12.52

0.33

Chocolate Malt

0.33

1.67

0.03

Amber Malt

1.83

9.17

0.34

Pilsner Malt

0.03

3.13

0.15

15.65

1.14

Carapils

1.09

0.02

5.45

0.12

Biscuit Malt

0.01

0.67

0.03

3.34

0.12

Malt Name

Min of Kg per liter

Max of Kg per liter

Min of Kg per batch [20ltr]

Max of Kg per batch [20ltr]

Average of Kg per liter

Maris Otter

0.72

0.01

14.38

0.18

Crystal Malt

0.25

5

0.01

Caramel / Crystal Malt

0.15

0.01

3.05

0.02

2-Row Pale Malt

0.48

0.05

9.59

0.16

Pale Ale Malt

0.68

0.03

13.6

0.16

Cara Malt

0.2

3.92

0.01

Wheat Malt

0.24

0.01

4.79

0.02

Malt Extract

0.25

0.03

5

0.09

Munich Malt

0.3

0.03

6

0.04

Chocolate Malt

0.04

0.8

0

Amber Malt

0.22

4.39

0.04

Pilsner Malt

0.38

0.07

7.5

0.14

Carapils

0.13

0.01

2.61

0.01

Biscuit Malt

0.08

0.01

1.6

0.01

*This data consists of hundreds of thousands of manually input recipes and, despite best efforts, they may contain errors leading to very high max amounts, or be someone’s attempt for experimental brew. You should consider this data more as an overview of how different ingredients were used for different styles to get inspiration. Please do not attempt to add up different lines as it’s all about proportions.

Recommended Hops for Bitter

With hops, you’ll want to choose varieties that are known for their bitterness.

Opt for English hops, like East Kent Goldings, Fuggles, and Target. These hops will give your beer a sharp, biting bitterness that’s characteristic of the Bitter style. But also provide floral, earthy, and herbal notes, as well as a touch of citrus or pine.

If you’re after something more modern or looking to add a bit more crafty twist, you can always select one of the new-wave hops. Cascade, Amarillo or Citra will provide more citrusy and fruity flavors. 

Although, not too much of it, cowboy. It’s still a Bitter, not an IPA 😉

Hops Name

Brewing Stage

Min of Oz per gallon

Max of Oz per gallon

Min of Oz per batch [5gal]

Max of Oz per batch [5gal]

Average of Oz per gallon

East Kent Golding

Aroma

0.01

1

0.04

5

0.15

 

Bittering

0.02

1.09

0.09

5.45

0.21

 

Dry Hop

0.03

0.8

0.13

4.01

0.15

 

First Wort

0.03

0.45

0.17

2.27

0.19

 

Flavor

0.79

0.01

3.93

0.14

 

Hop Stand

0.05

0.83

0.26

4.17

0.22

 

Hopback

0.06

0.24

0.32

1.21

0.17

 

Mash

0.09

0.26

0.45

1.28

0.18

 

Whirlpool

0.02

0.91

0.11

4.55

0.16

East Kent Golding Total

 

1.09

0.01

5.45

0.17

Fuggle

Aroma

0.02

0.7

0.1

3.5

0.14

 

Bittering

0.03

1.19

0.15

5.93

0.2

 

Dry Hop

0.03

0.57

0.13

2.86

0.17

 

First Wort

0.03

0.36

0.15

1.82

0.16

 

Flavor

0.02

0.55

0.1

2.73

0.13

 

Hop Stand

0.04

0.4

0.21

2

0.18

 

Hopback

0.12

0.33

0.58

1.67

0.19

 

Whirlpool

0.02

0.53

0.11

2.67

0.16

Fuggle Total

 

0.02

1.19

0.1

5.93

0.16

Challenger

Aroma

0.01

0.8

0.03

4.01

0.14

 

Bittering

0.03

0.57

0.15

2.86

0.16

 

Dry Hop

0.04

0.4

0.21

2

0.16

 

First Wort

0.04

0.48

0.21

2.4

0.14

 

Flavor

0.56

0.02

2.82

0.11

 

Hop Stand

0.07

0.08

0.33

0.4

0.08

 

Whirlpool

0.04

0.33

0.19

1.67

0.15

Challenger Total

 

0.8

0.02

4.01

0.14

Golding

Aroma

0.02

0.89

0.1

4.44

0.15

 

Bittering

0.04

0.96

0.19

4.82

0.22

 

Dry Hop

0.6

0.01

3

0.16

 

First Wort

0.04

0.4

0.21

2

0.19

 

Flavor

0.89

0.01

4.44

0.15

 

Hop Stand

0.08

0.13

0.42

0.67

0.1

 

Hopback

0.11

0.11

0.55

0.55

0.11

 

Whirlpool

0.04

0.33

0.22

1.67

0.13

Golding Total

 

0.96

0.01

4.82

0.17

Cascade

Aroma

0.03

1

0.15

5.02

0.16

 

Bittering

0.03

0.4

0.13

2

0.16

 

Dry Hop

0.04

0.8

0.19

4.01

0.21

 

First Wort

0.04

0.25

0.19

1.27

0.13

 

Flavor

0.03

0.74

0.13

3.68

0.13

 

Hop Stand

0.14

0.14

0.71

0.71

0.14

 

Whirlpool

0.03

1.2

0.13

6.01

0.19

Cascade Total

 

0.03

1.2

0.13

6.01

0.16

Hops Name

Brewing Stage

Min of Grams per liter

Max of Grams per liter

Min of Grams per batch [20ltr]

Max of Grams per batch [20ltr]

Average of Grams per liter

East Kent Golding

Aroma

0.06

7.49

1.23

149.78

1.16

 

Bittering

0.13

8.17

2.63

163.4

1.58

 

Dry Hop

0.2

6

4

120

1.16

 

First Wort

0.25

3.4

5

68.08

1.41

 

Flavor

0.02

5.88

0.31

117.65

1.02

 

Hop Stand

0.38

6.25

7.69

125

1.62

 

Hopback

0.48

1.82

9.62

36.36

1.31

 

Mash

0.68

1.92

13.62

38.46

1.32

 

Whirlpool

0.16

6.81

3.16

136.17

1.21

East Kent Golding Total

 

0.02

8.17

0.31

163.4

1.24

Fuggle

Aroma

0.15

5.24

2.95

104.85

1.07

 

Bittering

0.22

8.89

4.44

177.78

1.47

 

Dry Hop

0.19

4.28

3.84

85.59

1.26

 

First Wort

0.22

2.72

4.35

54.47

1.22

 

Flavor

0.14

4.08

2.88

81.7

1

 

Hop Stand

0.32

3

6.32

59.91

1.32

 

Hopback

0.87

2.5

17.39

49.93

1.41

 

Whirlpool

0.16

4

3.16

80

1.21

Fuggle Total

 

0.14

8.89

2.88

177.78

1.19

Challenger

Aroma

0.04

6

0.8

120

1.08

 

Bittering

0.22

4.28

4.35

85.59

1.17

 

Dry Hop

0.31

3

6.16

60

1.2

 

First Wort

0.31

3.6

6.25

72

1.07

 

Flavor

0.03

4.23

0.53

84.54

0.82

 

Hop Stand

0.5

0.61

9.99

12.12

0.56

 

Whirlpool

0.28

2.5

5.57

50

1.1

Challenger Total

 

0.03

6

0.53

120

1.07

Golding

Aroma

0.14

6.66

2.88

133.14

1.13

 

Bittering

0.29

7.22

5.76

144.34

1.62

 

Dry Hop

0.02

4.49

0.45

89.87

1.22

 

First Wort

0.32

3

6.34

59.91

1.41

 

Flavor

0.01

6.66

0.24

133.14

1.09

 

Hop Stand

0.63

1

12.5

19.97

0.76

 

Hopback

0.83

0.83

16.52

16.52

0.83

 

Whirlpool

0.33

2.5

6.67

50

0.96

Golding Total

 

0.01

7.22

0.24

144.34

1.25

Cascade

Aroma

0.23

7.52

4.53

150.43

1.17

 

Bittering

0.2

3

3.92

59.91

1.2

 

Dry Hop

0.29

6

5.76

120

1.59

 

First Wort

0.29

1.91

5.71

38.13

1

 

Flavor

0.19

5.51

3.85

110.26

0.98

 

Hop Stand

1.06

1.06

21.22

21.22

1.06

 

Whirlpool

0.2

9

4

180

1.44

Cascade Total

 

0.19

9

3.85

180

1.19

*This data consists of hundreds of thousands of manually input recipes and, despite best efforts, they may contain errors leading to very high max amounts, or be someone’s attempt for experimental brew. You should consider this data more as an overview of how different ingredients were used for different styles to get inspiration. Please do not attempt to add up different lines as it’s all about proportions.

Recommended Yeast for Bitter

Finally, you’ll need to choose the right yeast strain. 

Look for a strain that’s known for producing a clean, neutral flavor profile that won’t compete with the hops and malt. British ale yeast strain will work best. Such as Wyeast 1098 or White Labs WLP002.

  • English Ale
  • English Special Bitter
  • American Ale
  • British Ale
  • Nottingham Ale
  • London Ale
  • Style Default Yeast
  • Pale Ale
  • West Yorkshire
  • Windsor Ale

 

Recommended Add-ons for Bitter

Another important factor to consider is the water you use. Bitter beers typically have a high mineral content, so try to use water with a similar profile if possible. If you’re unsure, consider using a water treatment to adjust the pH and mineral content of your water.

You can also consider adding sugar adjuncts. 

Like corn or wheat to help boost the ABV.

  • Gypsum (Calcium Sulfate)
  • Calcium Chloride
  • Epsom Salt
  • Irish Moss
  • Whirlfloc
  • Protofloc
  • Yeast Nutrient
  • Torrefied Wheat
  • Flaked Barley
  • Flaked Oats
  • Cane Sugar
  • Brown Sugar
  • Corn Sugar
  • Flaked Corn
  • Baking Soda
  • Lactic Acid

 

Bitter Brewing Process

Once you have your ingredients, it’s time to start brewing. The first step is to mash your grains and extract the sugars that will be fermented into alcohol. This is typically done at a temperature of around 150°F.

After the mash, you’ll need to boil the wort and add your hops. The length of the boil and the timing of the hop additions will depend on the recipe you’re using. But in general, you’ll want to boil for at least 60 minutes…

…and add hops at the beginning and end of the boil.

Once the boil is complete, it’s time to cool the wort and transfer it to a fermenter. 

Add your yeast and let it ferment for about a week. After fermentation is complete, you can bottle or keg your beer for some carbonation. Please be careful, Bitters are rather flat when it comes to that. 

When it’s done it’s time to enjoy the distinctive flavor of a great Bitter beer.

Ah, one more thing. 

Bitter beers are best consumed fresh.

Hopping Amounts and Stages

Bitter, the most British pint of British pints. 

The one that’s more reliable than a London cabby and just as full of character. When it comes to brewing a Bitter, you want hops that are like the perfect butler. Courteous and never overstepping, but always making their presence felt.

First, you want to grab some classic East Kent Goldings. 

The Hugh Grant of hops. Charming, refined, and quintessentially British. You’ll need about 1 ounce of these beauties for a 5-gallon batch. Maybe a tad more. Toss ’em in with 60 minutes left on the boil to lay down that suave bitterness.

As smooth as a double-decker bus gliding through Piccadilly Circus.

Next, you’ll want to add a dash of Fuggles. 

The hop that’s as earthy as a walk through the Cotswolds. Another ounce goes in with 15 minutes left to boil. This is where the magic happens. It’s the hop equivalent of adding the perfect amount of milk to your tea.

A subtle touch that makes all the difference.

But wait, there’s more! For the grand finale, throw in a half-ounce of Fuggles for a late hop addition at flameout. This is the encore, the last bow, the “God Save the Queen” at the end of the concert.

For ESB you might increase the amounts to bump up hoppyness. Anyway, this is what gives your Bitter that floral aroma that’ll have you sniffing your pint like it’s a bouquet from the Queen’s garden.

Bitter Beer Hops

Popular Variants of Bitter

Ordinary Bitter Essentials

If you’re looking for a classic British beer style, then the Ordinary Bitter is a must-try. This beer is a session one. Meaning it’s low in alcohol and perfect for a long drinking session with friends. 

It’s also known as just “Bitter” in some parts of the UK.

This variant of Bitter is typically amber in color and has a malt-forward flavor profile with a subtle hop bitterness. It’s a great introduction to the Bitter beer style and is perfect for those who want to try something new without being overwhelmed.

Special Bitter and Best Bitter

Moving up in strength, we have the Special Bitter and Best Bitter. These beers are a step up in alcohol content and are perfect for those who want a bit more complexity in their beer.

The Special Bitter is a bit stronger than the Ordinary Bitter and has a more pronounced hop bitterness. It’s a great beer for those who want to explore the hoppy side of Bitter beers.

The Best Bitter is even stronger and has a more complex flavor profile. 

Although, depending on the approach, those 2 names can be used interchangeably.

Nonetheless, It’s a great beer for those who want to explore the maltier side of Bitter beers. It’s also a great beer for pairing with food, especially hearty dishes like stews and roasts.

Strong Bitter – The Heavyweight

Finally, we have the Strong Bitter, also known as the Extra Special Bitter (ESB). This beer is the heavyweight of the Bitter beer style and is not for the faint of heart.

This beer is strong, complex, and full of flavor. It has a rich malt profile with a pronounced hop bitterness. It’s a great beer for those who want to explore the full range of Bitter beer flavors.

The Bitter beer style is a classic British style that has something for everyone. 

Whether you’re looking for a session beer or a complex and full-bodied beer…

…the Bitter beer style has you covered. 

So grab a pint and enjoy the flavors of this iconic beer style.

Serving and Enjoyment

Serving and enjoying Bitter beer is what you ultimately want. There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the most out of this classic style. Here are some tips to help you navigate the cask-conditioned conundrums.

And find the right temperature for your Bitter.

Cask Conditioned Conundrums

If you’re new to Bitter, you might be wondering what cask conditioned means. Essentially, it means that the beer is naturally carbonated and served directly from the cask without any added gas.

This gives the beer a unique texture and flavor.

Something that can’t be replicated by other brewing methods.

To get the most out of cask-conditioned Bitter, it’s important to handle the beer properly. Make sure the cask has been settled for at least 24 hours before tapping it. And avoid shaking or jostling the cask as much as possible. 

When pouring, aim for a steady, slow stream…

…to avoid disturbing the sediment at the bottom of the cask.

The Right Temperature

Getting the temperature right is crucial when it comes to enjoying Bitter. Too warm and the beer will taste flat and lifeless. Too cold and the flavors will be muted. The ideal temperature for Bitter is around 50-55°F (10-13°C). Which is slightly warmer than most other beers.

If you’re serving Bitter at home, make sure to store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. If you’re at a pub or bar, ask the bartender to serve your Bitter at cellar temperature for the best flavor and drinkability.

But they most likely know. At least if you’re in the UK.

Overall, Bitter beer is a classic style that deserves to be enjoyed properly. By following these tips, you can ensure that you get the most out of this unique and delicious beer.

Cultural Impact

Pub Culture and Sessionability

Bitter beer has been a staple of British pub culture for centuries. With its low ABV and refreshing taste, it’s the perfect beer to enjoy over a long session with friends. The term “session beer” was actually coined in Britain to describe beers like Bitter.

That could be enjoyed in large quantities without getting too drunk.

One of the defining characteristics of Bitter is its balance of bitterness and maltiness. This makes it a versatile beer that can be paired with a wide range of pub foods, from fish and chips to steak and kidney pie.

It’s also a great beer to enjoy on its own.

Whether you’re sitting at the bar or relaxing in a cozy corner with a book.

Bitter Beer

Global Influence

The influence of Bitter extends far beyond Britain’s shores. 

American craft brewers have embraced the style, putting their own spin on it with American hops and malts. The result is a range of American Bitters that are more hop-forward than their British counterparts. 

But still retain the sessionability and balance

And this is what makes Bitter such a beloved style.

English-style Bitters have also become popular in other parts of the world. Particularly in countries with a strong British influence such as Australia and Canada. These beers are often brewed with local ingredients. 

Giving them a unique twist on the classic Bitter style.

Bitter beer has had a significant cultural impact both in Britain and around the world. Its sessionability and versatility make it a beloved style among beer drinkers of all stripes. And its influence can be seen in the many variations of the style that have emerged over the years.

Food Pairing

When it comes to pairing food with Bitter beer, it’s all about finding the right balance. You want to complement the beer’s bitterness with flavors that can stand up to it, without overpowering it. Here are some of Bitter’s best friends:

Bitter’s Best Friends

  • Fish and Chips: This classic British dish is a match made in heaven for Bitter beer. The crispy, salty batter of the fish balances out the bitterness of the beer, while the maltiness of the beer brings out the sweetness of the fish.

  • Spicy Foods: Bitter beer is a great choice for spicy foods, as the bitterness can help to cut through the heat. Try pairing it with Indian curries, Mexican salsas, or Thai stir-fries.

  • Strong Cheese: Bitter beer pairs well with strong, flavorful cheeses like cheddar, stilton, or gouda. The bitterness of the beer can help to balance out the richness of the cheese, while the maltiness of the beer can bring out the nutty flavors of the cheese.

  • Roasted Meats: Bitter beer is a great choice for roasted meats like beef, pork, or lamb. The bitterness of the beer can help to cut through the richness of the meat. While the maltiness of the beer can bring out the caramelized flavors of the meat.

  • Barbecue: Bitter beer is a natural choice for barbecue, as the bitterness can help to balance out the sweetness of the sauce. Try pairing it with ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.

Bitter beer is a versatile choice for food pairing, as its bitterness can complement a wide range of flavors. So next time you’re enjoying a Bitter, why not try pairing it with one of its best friends?

Commercial Examples

If you’re looking for a good Bitter beer to try, there are plenty of commercial examples available. Here are a few classics and modern interpretations to get you started.

Tasting the Classics

Adnams SSB is a classic example of an English Bitter. It has a deep amber color and a rich, malty flavor with a hint of sweetness. The bitterness is present, but not overpowering, making it a great choice for those who are new to the style.

Another classic Bitter is Fuller’s London Pride. This beer has a slightly darker color than Adnams SSB and a more pronounced hop flavor. It’s also a bit stronger, with an ABV of 4.7%.

Modern Interpretations

If you’re looking for a more modern take on the Bitter style, try Real Ale’s Fireman’s #4. This beer has a lighter color than traditional Bitters, but still has a good balance of malt and hops. It’s also a bit lighter in body, making it a great choice for a session beer.

Another modern interpretation is Sierra Nevada’s Pale Ale. 

While not technically a Bitter, it has many of the same characteristics. Including a balanced malt and hop profile and a moderate bitterness. It’s also a bit stronger than most Bitters, with an ABV of 5.6%.

No matter which commercial example you choose, make sure to take your time and savor the flavors. Bitter beers may not be for everyone, but they’re definitely worth a try.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. Bitter beer style is not for the faint of heart. It’s a bold, assertive beer that demands your attention from the first sip. You can’t just sit back and sip a Bitter like you would a light lager. No, sir. You’ve gotta commit to it.

But if you’re up for the challenge, the rewards are great. 

Bitter beer style is a complex and nuanced beer that rewards careful attention. From the first whiff of its hoppy aroma to the last lingering bitterness on your tongue. Bitter is a beer that will keep you engaged and intrigued.

Of course, bitterness is a key component of Bitter beer style. But it’s not just about bitterness. Bitter beer style is also characterized by its malty sweetness, its floral and fruity hop notes, and its dry, crisp finish.

It’s a beer that’s all about balance, and that’s what makes it so special.

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Damian

A lifelong learner, hop enthusiast and a lover of the state of extreme exhaustion.

Finance Analyst in the Investment Bank and co-founder of hopsmatcher.com